NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
CAN sues for stronger legislation to protect victims of GBV
Religious

CAN sues for stronger legislation to protect victims of GBV

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By Philomina Attah

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Monday, advocated stronger enforcement mechanisms to protect victims of gender-based violence and to hold perpetrators accountable.

The association also called on church leaders to lead the fight against violence inflicted on women and girls in the country.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said this at the inauguration of the Gender-Based Violence Prevention Project in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, with the theme, “Christian Leaders’ Response to Violence Against Women and Girls”, brought together faith leaders, civil society organisations, and advocates.

Okoh stressed the urgency of the theme, while noting the prevalence of abuse and exploitation faced by women and girls in communities across Nigeria.

“We are daily confronted with heartbreaking stories of abuse, exploitation, and violence, often perpetrated in silence.

“CAN is committed through this project to work with churches across all blocs by raising awareness of gender-based violence and its devastating impact on families and communities.

“We will train clergy and church workers on how to identify, prevent, and respond to cases of abuse.

“We will also promote survivor-centred support systems that affirm the dignity of women and girls,” he said.

He urged Christian leaders to break the culture of silence and shame, calling for an end to the anomaly.

“As Christian leaders, we must join forces with other humanitarian organisations that want an end to this anomaly.

“Men and women of God must not be silent when women are being brutalised in their homes and communities.

“The church must not be indifferent when girls are denied education, dignity, or protection. As Christian leaders, we have the moral responsibility to protect the weak and vulnerable around us.

“We must use our voices, pulpits and influence to break the culture of silence and shame that often surrounds gender-based violence,” the archbishop said.

Meanwhile, he commended the Ford Foundation and WEWE for their tireless work in promoting gender justice and supporting faith-based approaches to social transformation.

He highlighted the importance of collaboration between faith-based and humanitarian organisations.

“This partnership represents what can be achieved when faith meets action and compassion is translated into advocacy and service,” he said.

Quoting Isaiah 1:17, Okoh reminded the audience of the biblical instruction to defend the cause of the fatherless and plead the case of the widow.

He urged the church to follow Jesus’ example by creating safe spaces and speaking out against injustice. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Sandra Umeh

N30m up for grabs in Gbenga Daniel Choir competition
Religious

N30m up for grabs in Gbenga Daniel Choir competition

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By Chioma Ugboma

The Organisers of the Sen. Gbenga Daniel Choir Competition, “The Asiwaju of Remo Christians Choir Festival competition”, says N30 million is up for grabs in the 2025 competition slated for July 6.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the festival is an annual event founded and sponsored in the last 20 years by Daniel, the Senator representing Ogun East.

NAN recalls that the festival, held annually in Ogun, was expanded in the last four years to include price for winners to make it more competitive and for participation by choirs nationwide and beyond the country.

Addressing newsmen on Monday in Lagos, Daniel said he was motivated by his experience as a member of the Baptist Boys’ High School, Ogun, as a chorister and college pianist.

The senator said that music played a pivotal role in shaping his spiritual and musical journey.

“These formative experiences laid the foundation for my passion for music and its potential to inspire and uplift others,” he said.

The senator said he realised that he could use the festival to mould and influence the values and morals of the younger generation.

“So much has changed in the society with people no longer asking questions on morals.

“My passion is how to support upcoming generations and change the psyche of our people using this festival.

“We need to create more interest in music/choir and use it to influence the upbringing of future generations, influencing their morals and redirecting them to what is right.

“Growing up, people ask the source of sudden wealth but these days, nobody cares. The moral decadence is such that must be addressed.

“This is one of the ways I chose to influence the young minds into being disciplined and doing the right thing,” he said.

The Asiwaju of Remo urged parents to do more in changing the value system, which he said, would go a long way in reshaping the society.

Also speaking, Dr Opeyemi Asaolu, Curator and Member of the Organising Board of the festival, said 850 choristers are expected at the event.

Asaolu said the 2025 event would hold at Abraham Tabernacle Church, Sagamu, Ogun State, an Ecumenical Church under the management of the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

Asaolu said nine choirs qualified for the competition against the usual six choirs in the past three editions.

“The only choir that has automatic qualification for the competition is the host choir, the Abraham Tabernacle Choir.

“Also, the choir defending its winning title qualifies automatically for the next.

“The total amount of prize to be won at this year’s edition of the Choir Festival is N30 million, with the winner going home with N5 million.

“The second prize is N3.5 million, the third prize is N2.5 million, fourth prize N1 million, fifth prize is N900,000, sixth prize is N800,000, seventh prize N700,000, eight prize N600,000 and ninth prize N500,000.

“We have 21 observing choirs and they will go home with N500,000 each,” he said.

He said participants were chosen after auditioning, saying that the choirs for the 2025 edition, from various parts of the country were selected after auditioning.

He urged Nigerians to join in sponsoring the festival to make room for greater participation.

The 2024 edition was held in Remo, Sagamu, hometown of Daniel, a former governor of Ogun and Asiwaju of Remo.

In 2024, N10 million was set aside as prizes for participants, with the winning choir receiving N3 million, as against the N5 million for the winning choir in the 2025 competition.

NAN reports that other members of the Governing Board of the festival are
Ms Lilian Imoni, Dr Adeola Badru and Mr Seun Owoaje. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Transparency, collaboration driving progress in basic healthcare fund implementation — Salako
Health

Transparency, collaboration driving progress in basic healthcare fund implementation — Salako

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By Abujah Racheal

The Federal Ministry of Health says transparency, inclusiveness and inter-agency collaboration are fuelling steady progress in the implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, said this during the 11th meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) on BHCPF on Monday in Abuja.

Salako said that the committee reflected the ministry’s commitment to inclusive and accountable health governance.

“The MOC reflects the level of transparency and inclusiveness that is now driving the system.

“We are seeing more active engagement from sub-national governments, civil society organisations and the four implementing gateways; this synergy is critical to delivering better health outcomes,” he said.

The minister said that the current process was fostering greater enrolment in health insurance, as stakeholders aligned their priorities and worked in a more coordinated manner.

He also underscored the impact of the Presidential Executive Order on unlocking the healthcare value chain, stating that its implementation was beginning to show results across different components of the health system.

“This Order has had a positive ripple effect on Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry,” he said.

He shared insights from a recent engagement with a leading drug manufacturer, commending the Senate for its role in fast-tracking regulatory reforms.

Salako, however, raised a critical question, “Are these benefits being transferred to the patients?”

He said that the ultimate aim must be to lower drug prices at the pharmacy counter.

The minister urged stakeholders to ensure that cost savings were not absorbed solely by manufacturers but passed on to those in need.

In addition, he called for greater flexibility in evaluating innovative proposals that may fall outside traditional funding parameters.

“The revitalisation of primary healthcare, a key agenda of President Bola Tinubu, is no longer just a plan, it is becoming visible and measurable,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the BHCPF, which aims to improve access to quality and affordable healthcare through sustainable financing, continues to gain traction across states.

The MOC serves as a critical platform for monitoring, reviewing, and aligning health sector progress toward Universal Health Coverage. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Alleged contempt: CBN, firm agree to settle out of court
Judiciary

Alleged contempt: CBN, firm agree to settle out of court

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By Taiye Agbaje
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and a private firm, Melrose General Services, on Monday agreed to settle their legal dispute at the Federal High Court in Abuja out of court
The development was made known by Yusuf Ali, SAN, counsel to the CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, and Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, lawyer representing Melrose before Justice Mohammed Umar shortly when the matter was called.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Melrose had in a suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/532/2025, filed a contempt charge against Cardoso over alleged disobedience to a Supreme Court judgment.
In June 2024, the Supreme Court had overturned a previous forfeiture order against Melrose General Services Limited’s funds, which had been frozen following an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The disputed sums included N1,222,384,857.84 in Melrose’s bank account and N220 million paid by the company to Wasp Networks and Thebe Wellness as loan and investment.
The apex court had ruled that the EFCC had not proven the funds were proceeds of fraud, as alleged.
The court set aside the lower courts’ forfeiture orders, directing the release of the funds to their rightful owners.
However, inspite of the Supreme Court’s decision, Melrose’s lawyers filed a lawsuit at the trial court, alleging that the CBN and its top officials had only partially complied with the judgment.
Melrose, in its application before Justice Umar averred that while the N1.22 billion was refunded, the outstanding N220 million remains unpaid.
The disputed money was part of the Paris Club refund.
The company, through its counsel, filed the contempt suit against the CBN governor; the apex bank’s Director of Legal Services, Salam-Alada Kofo and the EFCC.
Also joined in the suit is the Minister of Finance.
It argued that their refusal to release the full amount constitutes contempt of court and undermines the Supreme Court’s authority.
NAN reports that the dispute stems from the controversial Paris Club refund, a settlement involving payments to consultants for services rendered to the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF).
The EFCC had claimed that an investigation revealed N3.5 billion was allegedly fraudulently paid to the appellant for a purported consultancy job for the NGF.
At the apex court, Melrose’s legal team argued that the disputed funds were payment for a contractual and consultancy agreement between their client and relevant government stakeholders.
In its majority decision, the Supreme Court agreed with the appellant, ruling that the EFCC failed to prove the funds were proceeds of fraud.
Consequently, the court upheld the appellant’s case and set aside the lower courts’ forfeiture orders.
At the resumed hearing on Monday, Ali told Justice Umar that while the matter started with “some very big figures” of money, the outstanding is “just N20 million.”
According to him, we have had preliminary discussions within ourselves; that is, the counsel to the applicant (Melrose).
“And we believe that this is a matter that can be settled out of court through settlement without necessarily requiring your lordship to write a ruling,” he said.
The senior lawyer then asked for a date to come back and make a report on the settlement.
Ojukwu also confirmed Ali’s statement.
“He (Ali) has agreed to speak to the CBN on the matter,” he said.
He said parties had opted for reconciliation and the judge adjourned the matter until July 22 for a report on the settlement. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
ABU emerges top 10 in international energy competition
Education

ABU emerges top 10 in international energy competition

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By Mustapha Yauri

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria has emerged part of the top 10 competitors at the prestigious ‘Power the Community 2025’ International Design Competition.

The Director, Public Affairs Directorate of the university, Malam Auwalu Umar, disclosed this in Zaria on Monday.

Umar said that the university’s outstanding performance underscored its commitment to harnessing cutting-edge solutions for community development and environmental sustainability.

“The competition was the second annual event put together by Energy Mentors which provides a “unique opportunity” for students to showcase their creativity and skills in designing energy infrastructure for communities of their choice.

“Energy Mentors is a non-profit organisation dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainable practices in the energy field and it is based in Sugar Land City, Fort Bend County, Texas, USA,” he said.

Umar said that the competition was open to undergraduate, graduate, and even high school students from across the world to apply their knowledge and skills to solve real-world challenges.

He added that the competition had a share of the 31,000 dollars prize pool, with the grand prize being 10,000 dollars.

“The recently concluded global event featured entries from 18 countries and two students’ teams from ABU emerged among the top 10,” Umar said.

Prof. Adamu Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor ABU, was quoted as commending the students for their “exceptional performances,” stressing that ABU had the capacity to solve global problems.

“If this were a national competition, you would have taken the first place,” the Vice-Chancellor told the winning teams.

He also pledged the university’s full support towards further development and potential real-world implementation of their designs in nearby communities, with possibilities for federal adaption.

The Vice-Chancellor further reaffirmed the university’s commitment to excellence as the university management was committed to ensuring “you win even more competitions,” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Sandra Umeh

Reps committee wants details of Rivers N1.48 trn budget submitted within 48 hours
Politics

Reps committee wants details of Rivers N1.48 trn budget submitted within 48 hours

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By EricJames Ochigbo

The House of Representatives has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Sole Administration of Rivers, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, to submit the breakdown of major items in the state’s 2025 budget.

The Chairman Ad hoc Committee on Rivers, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere (APC-Edo), issued the ultimatum on Monday at budget defence session in Abuja.

He said that the committee had gone through the N1.48 trillion budget as presented by the sole administrator and had raised several issues.

He said that the administrator should submit the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), with a legal document that should precede budget presentation.

Ihonvbere, who is the Majority Leader of the house, queried the allocation of N24 billion for CCTV cameras to be installed in the state’s government house, demanding for the breakdown.

He also queried the allocation of N30 billion for the purchase of gun boats and N23 billion for contingency reserves, requesting for justification of the allocation.

The chairman said that the committee also observed and questioned the allocation of state funds to existing federal project without agreement with the Federal Government for refunds among others.

“We need additional details for those allocations; we request details of the state Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the last three months.

“That will enable us know your financial flows so that we can weigh it against the deficit in the budget in terms of financing it and carrying out some of the projects.

“We also need details of transfers to local governments, essentially how local government funds that came into the state are being managed at the moment.

“Those documents we have requested for must reach us within 48 hours; be rest assured that we are all on the same side in terms of getting Rivers working again.

“We want to ensure that we will promote a lot of accountability and ensure that the interest of the people themselves, no matter how remote they are from the state capital, are protected,” he said.

Ihonvbere commended President Bola Tinubu for his intervention that brought about peace between the suspended governor and legislature in the state.

Earlier, Ibas who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Strategy and Policy, Mr Andrew Nweke, explained that the administration inherited many of the items in the budget.

According to him, the budget is a reflection of the interest of Rivers people as it was designed in line with the needs assessment carried out by implementation agencies.

Nweke said that Rivers had a lot of peculiarities, saying that the N30 billion earmarked for gun boats was to support security agencies in their fight against insecurity on the waterways.

He also said that Rivers is often hit by floods, insecurity and other unforeseen natural circumstances, saying that the N23 billion contingency fund was to address such challenges.

“For the allocation of N24 billion for CCTV in the government house, there is need to ensure modern technology security surveillance among others,” he said.

He said that the additional documents required by the committee will be made available to ease the legislative process. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu 

SSANU demands harmonisation of salary disbursements
Education

SSANU demands harmonisation of salary disbursements

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By Joan Nwagwu

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has demanded for immediate harmonisation of salary disbursements across all Federal and State institutions to ensure fairness and equity.

Mr Mohammed Ibrahim, National President of SSANU, made the demand in a communique issued on Monday at the end of the 51st National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the unions held at the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State.

A text of the communique was made available to the News Agency of News of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

Ibrahim said that NEC decried the persistent delay in salary payments to federal universities, often weeks after other Federal workers have been paid.

“This discriminatory practice is both unjust and unacceptable.

“The union demands the immediate harmonisation of salary disbursements across all federal and state institutions to ensure fairness and equity,” ‘he said.

He also said that NEC strongly condemned the continued withholding of salaries of SSANU members who participated in the 2022 industrial action.

He said NEC, therefore, urged the Federal Government to immediately release the outstanding two months withheld salaries as a demonstration of good faith and commitment to restoring industrial harmony within the university system.

Ibrahim said that NEC expressed deep concern over the government’s persistent disregard for Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), Memoranda of Action (MoAs) and other duly negotiated collective bargained agreements entered into with SSANU.

He reiterated that such agreements, which had been reached through structured dialogue and mutual consent were binding and must be honoured in full.

“NEC warns that if this pattern of neglect continues, the union will be left with no choice but to explore all lawful and appropriate avenues to compel compliance,” he said.

He said NEC strongly frowned at the inequitable and negligible allocation of the ₦50 billion Earned Allowance, wherein only 20 per cent was allotted to the members of the three non-teaching unions (SSANU, NASU and NAAT).

Ibrahim added that, this allocation is unjust, discriminatory, and fails to acknowledge the indispensable role SSANU members play in the effective functioning of Nigerian universities.

“It is also in breach of the MoU signed with the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of NASU and SSANU in August 2022.

“NEC calls for a redress of this injustice meted to our members in the universities and inter universities centres,” it said.

Ibrahim also expressed deep disappointment over the continued silence and inaction of the Federal Government’s Renegotiation Committee regarding the 2009 FG/SSANU Agreement, among other issues affecting its members.

He also called on the Federal Government to address the worsening state of the economy, cost of living and insecurity across the country, particularly the recent mass killings in Benue, Plateau, and other states.

Ibrahim also reaffirmed SSANU’s commitment to nation-building, declaring the union’s readiness to offer its professional expertise in education reform in service to the nation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Iziama

Foundation awards ₦50m to 111 exceptional civil servants in 3 years
General News

Foundation awards ₦50m to 111 exceptional civil servants in 3 years

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By Angela Atabo

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation has awarded over ₦50 million to 111 outstanding civil servants across the country in the past three years.

Its Communications Representative, Ms Damilola Bakare, said the award was under the Emily Aig-Imoukhuede Endowment Fund.

Bakare said the foundation has been partnering with the Head of Civil Service and extended its partnership to Diamond sponsored in the just concluded International Civil Service Conference (ICSC).

This, she said, was to further deepen the foundation’s partnership with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF).

She explained that the foundation expanded its civil servant recognition programme funded by the Fund for Public Sector Excellence, by introducing two new prize categories.

Bakare added that the recipients of the Presidential Civil Service Merit Award were each awarded ₦500,000, while winners of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation EPIC Award received ₦250,000.

“These awards highlight the foundation’s dedication to promoting excellence, professionalism, integrity, and commitment in the public service.

“Sixteen outstanding civil servants were honoured at the gala night, marking a significant milestone in the foundation’s ongoing commitment to public sector transformation.

“Since its inception in 2022, the Emily Aig-Imoukhuede Endowment Fund has awarded over ₦50 million to 111 exceptional civil servants.

“This initiative continues to inspire a culture of high performance and innovation at every level of government, reinforcing the foundation’s mission to drive positive change in Nigeria’s public sector,” she said.

Bakare said in support of motivation and excellence in civil service, the foundation also sponsored the cash prizes for 16 of the 21 awards given.

She disclosed that in response to these and many more support by the foundation, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation presented an award to the foundation.

This is in recognition of being a longstanding partner of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola

Oyetola inaugurates 11-member NPA board
General News

Oyetola inaugurates 11-member NPA board

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By Diana Omueza

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, on Monday inaugurated an 11-member Governing Board for the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to strengthen its governance structure and reposition it for optimal performance.

Speaking during the inauguration in Abuja, Oyetola said the new board reflected President Bola Tinubu’s broader vision to reform institutions, enhance trade facilitation, and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.

The board is chaired by Mr Adedayo Adeyeye, with members including Dr Mercy Ilori, Mr Amirudin Tukur Idris, Ekpebide Ebi-Erin Daniel, and Sen. Lawan Jalo Zarami.

Other members are Olabanji Olayemi Olateju, Kelechi Igwe, Abubakar Dantsoho, Ibrahim Abba Umar, Olalekan Badmus, and Vivian Edet.

 “In line with the NPA Act, this board is entrusted with key policy responsibilities, particularly on staffing and budget matters,” Oyetola said, referencing Sections 10 and 20 of the Act.

He noted that the duties were carried out through two strategic committees, the Staff and Establishment Committee and the Finance Committee.

He stressed, however, that the day-to-day operations of the NPA remained the sole responsibility of the Managing Director and the management team, as stipulated by law.

Oyetola cited the Public Procurement Act and Public Service Rules, which clearly defined the boundaries between board oversight and executive management.

“The board must provide policy direction without interfering in routine operations.

“Constructive engagement, mutual respect, and institutional harmony are essential for success,” he warned.

Oyetola urged members to approach their duties with discipline, professionalism, and a strong commitment to national interest, emphasising that their role was pivotal to building a globally competitive port system.

In his remarks, Board Chairman, Adeyeye thanked the minister for the opportunity to serve and pledged to lead a results-driven board.

He assured that the members, chosen for their experience and competence, would align with the Renewed Hope Agenda and ministerial directives to transform the NPA.

“We will work within the laid-down guidelines and policies.

“Our focus is to strengthen the effectiveness of the NPA and support Nigeria’s economic growth,” Adeyeye said.

He also promised to work harmoniously with the ministry, NPA management, and staff to achieve the board’s objectives, expressing optimism that their tenure would be marked by “great success.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Abiemwense Moru

Reparations, Repatriation: Time for African fraternity, consolidation, national strategies- Nwoko
Politics

Reparations, Repatriation: Time for African fraternity, consolidation, national strategies- Nwoko

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By Kingsley Okoye

Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) and Chairman, Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation says it is time for African fraternity, consolidation and national strategies in confronting the painful legacies of its past.

Nwoko said this on Monday in Abuja in his address of welcome at a one-day consultative forum with all African Ambassadors in Nigeria organised by the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation.

Nwoko also said that the forum was more than a meeting as it was a remarkable moment in time.

According to him, it is a moment for redefining Africa’s place in history, not as a victim seeking sympathy, but as a continent asserting its rightful place in global justice conversation, demanding accountability, restitution and respect.

He disclosed that the committee was formally established by the Nigerian Senate on July 17, 2024, with a mandate to address the centuries-old injustices inflicted upon Nigerians through slavery, colonisation, exploitation, and systemic discrimination, both historical and contemporary.

“This forum, organised as a strategic engagement with Your Excellencies, aims to foster dialogue, share insights, and forge practical, collaborative pathways for advancing across the African continent.

“The work before us is neither symbolic nor ceremonial. It is structured, evidence-based, and far-reaching. Our committee is guided by specific terms of reference that reflect the weight of our responsibility.

“This includes to address historical and systemic injustices that have long dehumanised and marginalised various groups and communities within Nigeria, and the broader African diaspora.

“It is to also collate credible evidence of wrongdoing by individuals, states, corporations, and other institutions, past and present, and make concrete recommendations for appropriate compensation and redress,” he said.

The reparations and repatriation committee chairman further said that the committee was mandated to pursue the return of looted cultural artifacts and heritage materials taken during colonial conquests or illicit trade.

According to him, this includes leveraging international legal frameworks and institutions to seek restitution and financial reparation where applicable.

“To identify and interrogate historical injustices, establish dialogical frameworks, and propose legal and policy templates that are in alignment with national constitutions, and international conventions.

“This will include collaboration with both local and international experts across fields, law, history, anthropology, economics, and diplomacy,” he said.

He added that the committee was also expected to evolve a holistic national and regional strategy that reflected the complex intersections of culture, justice, and economic sustainability.

“The committee is to also interrogate and challenge ongoing neocolonial structures and practices that sustain economic and institutional subjugation in Nigeria,” he added.

Nwoko noted that the mandate does not only cover matters of culture and history but extended into virtually all sectors of the nation’s socio-economic architecture, education, resource control, infrastructure, restitution, and intergovernmental equity.

He emphasised that the forum was further invigorated by recent continental effort, adding that in February the African Union (AU) reinforced the call for reparative mechanisms to provide not just economic compensation, but healing acknowledgement and empowerment.

“That AU summit marked a pivotal moment, affirming that reparation is no longer a fringe discourse, but now central to Africa’s collective agenda for justice, recognition and transformation.

“It is in this context that we engage you, Your Excellencies. Your insights, diplomatic experiences, and policies perspectives are crucial to shaping what must become an African-wide position, a unified voice that will reverberate in international chambers and court of justice.

“Together, we must construct a strategy that is both morally grounded and diplomatically effective,” he further said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

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