NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Journalists must hold leaders accountable to safeguard democracy—Mbah
General News

Journalists must hold leaders accountable to safeguard democracy—Mbah

54 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has emphasised the vital role of journalists in safeguarding democracy by holding leaders accountable at all times.

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‎Mbah made the call on Friday at a two-day capacity retreat for members of the State House Press Corps (SHPC) in Enugu.

‎Represented by Prof. Sam Ugwu, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Mbah described the media as the nation’s conscience.

“As a bastion of democracy, it is essential that journalists must never lose sight of their sacred responsibility to hold leaders accountable and strengthen institutions.”

‎“In today’s world, where truth is increasingly under assault, your role has never been more critical,” he said.

‎Speaking on the workshop theme, “Artificial Intelligence Utilisation for Effective Journalism,” Mbah advocated for ethical and responsible journalism.

‎He urged journalists to embrace AI as a powerful tool, while staying grounded in journalistic integrity.

‎“Artificial Intelligence is not the next frontier; it is actually with us now and impacting our lives in ways we may not immediately discern.”

“We miss the point if we simply view Artificial Intelligence through the lens of conspiracy theories and fear: that it will lead to job losses, overwhelm humanity, etc.”

‎“We should rather see Artificial Intelligence as a tool that can make us work smarter,” he said.

‎Mbah also highlighted technology-driven reforms by his administration, including a Command and Control Centre for security surveillance and a smart school initiative.

Earlier, SHPC Chairman, Anule Emmanuel, lauded the governor for his visionary leadership and hospitality.

‎“As journalists covering the seat of power, we operate in a highly sensitive environment.”

‎”This retreat offers us a valuable opportunity to refresh our skills and reposition ourselves for impactful and responsible journalism in the age of AI,” he said.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the retreat was attended by SHPC members media strategists, tech experts, and government officials. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for BRICS Summit
Foreign

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for BRICS Summit

97 total views today
‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
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‎President Bola Tinubu on Friday night arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to participate in the 17th BRICS Summit.
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‎This marks Nigeria’s long awaited debut as a ‘partner country’ at the influential economic gathering
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‎According to a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, My Bayo Onanuga, the presidential jet, which departed Saint Lucia earlier in the day, touched down at the the Galeao Air Force Base tarmac at about 8:45 pm (local time).
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‎President Tinubu was received by Brazilian officials, including the Secretary for Africa and the Middle East and the Secretary for Innovation and Commerce.
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‎The Galeao Air Force Base Commander coordinated the Guard of Honour for President Tinubu.
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‎Brazil’s Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Amb. Carlos Duarte, and the Deputy Minister for Trade Promotion, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Culture, received President Tinubu.
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‎President Tinubu is in Brazil at the invitation of President Lula Da Silva.
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‎According to the statement, the Nigerian leader will attend a bilateral meeting hosted by President Lula on Saturday, ahead of the summit on June 6 and 7.
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‎At the BRICS Summit, the President will participate in a plenary session and deliver an address on Nigeria’s ongoing reforms to reposition the economy for global competitiveness.
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‎He will also attract investors to capitalise on the country’s opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy.
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‎The summit’s theme is “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” Deliberations will centre on health, Artificial Intelligence, governance, and Climate Change issues.
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‎Ahead of the Leaders’ Summit, the political negotiators of BRICS brainstormed over aligning more commitments to combat socially determined diseases, artificial intelligence governance, and climate finance.
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‎ Their focus was on providing concrete solutions to the structural challenges faced by the Global South.
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‎According to the statement, State Governors participating in the summit with the President are Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger).
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‎The Nigerian leader is one of four African presidents invited to the summit, joining counterparts from South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia, the three African nations that hold full BRICS membership.
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‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria accepted an invitation to become a partner country in January 2025, following the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia.
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‎This partnership allows Nigeria to engage with the bloc’s economic and political initiatives without holding full membership.
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‎The BRICS group consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. In 2024-2025, they expanded by adding Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates as full members, and also invited several other countries as partner countries.
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‎Nigeria is one of these partner countries, alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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‎Edited by Sadiya Hamza
FG’s flood insurance policy will curb economic loss— TMSG
General News

FG’s flood insurance policy will curb economic loss— TMSG

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG), has said that the Federal Government’s new flood insurance policy, is a strategic measure that will reduce economic losses occasioned by flood disasters.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Federal Government had in June, unveiled a National Flood Insurance Policy, as part of proactive efforts to address Nigeria’s growing vulnerability to flood disasters.

‎In a statement jointly signed by the group’s Chairman, Mr Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Mr Dapo Okubanjo, TMSG said the move was apt and strategic.

‎The group described the insurance initiative, as a crucial lifeline for flood victims across the country.

‎”For us, this initiative could not have come at a better time than now that the country is still reeling from the devastating effect of the recent flash flood.

‎”The flood in Mokwa, Niger State, claimed at least 200 lives and destroyed property worth millions of naira.

‎”It is also noteworthy that the Mokwa flood became a case study by stakeholders, who recently converged in Abuja, to deliberate on a framework for the implementation of the policy,” he said.

‎TMSG, consequently, urged stakeholders, to fast-track the policy’s implementation and finalisation of its framework.

‎”We are elated that such an initiative is about to take root in a country where about five million individuals were affected by floods in 2024 alone, according to official statistics from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

‎”This, is because, flood insurance is a global practice in several countries of the world, even though it is relatively new in Africa.

‎”It is on record that a similar policy came into operation in the US in the 1960s, and has since then, been instrumental to alleviating the pains of flood victims.

‎”So by institutionalising it in Nigeria, the President Bola Tinubu’s administration, would be laying the ground work for a safety net for individuals and businesses, who may be affected by flooding to enable them recover quickly.” he said

‎The group, emphasised the urgency of implementing the policy to safeguard national interest.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sandra Umeh

Tinubu salutes Olubadan’s service, enduring leadership at 90
General News

Tinubu salutes Olubadan’s service, enduring leadership at 90

93 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Oba Akinloye Olakulehin on his 90th birthday and the first anniversary of his coronation as Olubadan of Ibadanland.

‎It will be recalled that Oba Olakulehin was officially crowned as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland on July 12, 2024, marking a historic chapter in the city’s royal lineage.

‎The congratulatory message is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga on Friday.

‎Tinubu said at 90, the Oba embodies the rare blend of age-old wisdom, service, and enduring leadership, earned through decades of service to his people and the nation.

‎The president emphasised the traditional ruler’s commitment to peace and progress, calling his reign one of grace, insight, and community upliftment.

‎He described the Olubadan as a distinguished royal father, cultural custodian, and statesman who has preserved Yoruba identity, values, and heritage.

‎”Your Imperial Majesty, Oba Olakulehin, as you mark nine decades of a life well lived in service, sacrifice, and stewardship, and on your first anniversary on the throne of your forefathers.

‎”We honour not only your longevity but also your immense contributions to community development and national unity.”

‎”May your reign be peaceful, prosperous, and impactful,” the president said.

‎Tinubu prayed for the Oba’s continued good health, strength, and grace, while his throne continues to symbolise peace, prosperity, and pride for generations to come.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Oba was born on July 5,  1935 in Okugbaja Village within Akanran, in the present day Ona-Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Olakulehin began his education in Ibadan, later training as a teacher before gaining vocational skills at Yaba Technical Institute, marking the start of his professional journey.

He joined the Western Region Government as a clerk, then earned OND and HND in Building at Yaba College of Technology. He transferred to the Nigerian Army in 1970 as an officer.

‎He served nationwide, eventually retiring in 1979 after a distinguished 20-year military career and transitioned to business.

‎He also entered politics, becoming a federal legislator before ascending Ibadan’s traditional leadership hierarchy.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Tinubu expresses sadness over passing of legendary goalkeeper’ Peter Rufai
Sports

Tinubu expresses sadness over passing of legendary goalkeeper’ Peter Rufai

114 total views today

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sadness at the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai.

‎Rufai, 61, died on Thursday after a brief illness.

‎In a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President extended condolences to the Rufai family, friends, and the Nigerian football community.

‎The President praised Rufai’s lasting impact on Nigerian football, describing him as a legendary figure beloved by fans across the country who affectionately called him “Dodomayana.”

‎Tinubu lauded the ex- Super Eagles’s goalkeeper as a patriotic sportsman who carved his name in gold in Nigeria’s football history and across the African continent.

‎”I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the AFCON in Tunisia.

‎”He was the first-choice goalkeeper. He also followed up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making, first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed U.S.A ’94.”

‎”Rufai was also a strong member of the team at the subsequent edition of the competition in France in 1998.”

‎”Having started his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980, Rufai was one of the earliest footballers in Nigeria to go professional.

‎”He played in many European countries including Belgium, Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands, bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria,” Tinubu said.

‎The President also acknowledged Rufai’s vital contributions to grassroots football and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of players in Nigeria.

‎”After he retired from active football, Peter, a Prince of the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he continued to inspire, mentor and nurture young footballers,” Tinubu said.

NAN reports that Rufai competed professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain, in a senior career that lasted 20 years.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

‎Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Group hails FG’s approval of degrees in 15 colleges of education
Education

Group hails FG’s approval of degrees in 15 colleges of education

126 total views today
By Muhyideen Jimoh

 The Social Advancement Forum (SAF), has commended the Federal Government’s decision to approve Bachelor’s Degree programmes in 15 Federal Colleges of Education across Nigeria.

‎The commendation follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent assent to a bill empowering these institutions to award both the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degrees.

‎In a statement signed by the group’s chairman, Tahir Ibrahim Tahir on Thursday, SAF described the development as a positive step for education in the country.

‎”We see the dualw certification model as a good move aimed at revitalising teacher education in the country as well as addressing dwindling enrollment.”

‎”By allowing Colleges of Education to award NCE and B.Ed, the country has taken a major step towards improving teacher training and access to quality education.”

‎”We also acknowledged efforts being put in place to review NCE’s minimum standards to maintain quality and to ensure that education requirements are met,” he said.

‎Tahir, however, emphasized the importance of effective supervision and implementation to achieve the intended impact of the policy.

‎”We are hopeful for a proper supervision of the implementation process.”

‎”But we also urge students to take note of these developments and not allow the President’s efforts at empowering youths to go down the drain,” he said.

‎SAF also commended other recent reforms in the education sector, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme.

‎The group said these initiatives would help empower Nigerian youths by focusing on skills acquisition and entrepreneurship through structured learning and training.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Abuja court strikes out Bash Ali’s N500bn suit against ex-sports minister
Judiciary

Abuja court strikes out Bash Ali’s N500bn suit against ex-sports minister

118 total views today

By Edith Nwapi
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‎Justice Peter Kekemeke of an Abuja High Court on Thursday struck out former boxer, Bash Ali’s suit for being “Statute barred”.
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‎Ali had instituted the suit against former Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, the National Sports Commission and the  Attorney General of the Federation.
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‎Delivering a ruling on the preliminary objection by the defendant in the suit, Kekemeke held that the case was no longer valid because the time limit for bringing it to court has passed, as defined by a statute of limitations.
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‎“From the piece of evidence before the court, there is none pointing that the first defendant signed a contract.
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‎“The suit was filed on Oct. 10, 2021, three months before the claimant ‘s counter affidavit , his case did not fall into the expectation known in law, the cause of Act accrued on May 20, 2020 is statute barred.
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‎” The notice of preliminary objection succeeds, the case is consequently struck out.
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‎Ali had in his suit prayed the court for an order declaring that withdrawal of support given to him was illegal.
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‎He prayed for an order of the court directing the first defendant to reteact the defamatory matter published against him.
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‎Ali further asked the court for an order of the court directing the first defendant to resume their support.
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‎He also asked for N500 billion for loss of income among other demands.
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‎The defendants in the case are Sunday Dare, then Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports development and the Attorney General of the Federation.

For over 19 years, Bash Ali has pushed to stage the Guiness World Record Boxing fight.

However, across the administrations of five Presidents and five Sports Ministers, his proposal has consistently failed to receive full official approval or endorsement — a clear indication of lingering doubts about its legitimacy.(NAN)(www.nanews.ng)

‎Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Sadiya Hamza
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Tinubu pledges to address diaspora issues
Foreign

Tinubu pledges to address diaspora issues

128 total views today

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has pledged to address the challenges facing Nigerians in Saint Lucia and other parts of the world through diplomatic engagement.

He made the pledge on Wednesday during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian community in Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia.

The event was organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

A statement on the event, issued by Presidential Spokesperson Mr Bayo Onanuga, was released to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.

President Tinubu urged Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to remain law-abiding and serve as good ambassadors of the country.

“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law,” he said.

Drawing from his experience as a student in the U.S. five decades ago, Tinubu emphasised the importance of focus and hard work.

“Life is about working hard, being consistent,” he noted.

Assuring the community of government support, Tinubu stated, “For the professionals living here, our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed.”

He highlighted efforts by his administration to stabilise Nigeria’s economy, saying, “We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we have been able to rescue the economy.”

He also noted improvements in oil revenue management and foreign exchange policy.

Dabiri-Erewa lauded the contributions of Nigerians in Saint Lucia and encouraged them to stay connected to their homeland.

Mr Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), raised concerns about a 2,500 dollars annual work permit fee as one of the challenges faced by the community.

Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest in Saint Lucia, said the large turnout reflected the community’s respect and affection for the President.

Dr Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician and graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, welcomed the President and shared her story of raising two doctors in Saint Lucia.

She added that her husband had since returned to Nigeria, where he now served as Chief Medical Director at a new federal medical centre.

As a token of appreciation, the Nigerian community presented President Tinubu with a portrait made by Doris, a medical student and talented artist.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Tinubu support group dismisses ADC coalition 
Politics

Tinubu support group dismisses ADC coalition 

149 total views today

By Adeyemi Adeleye

 

The Tinubu Media Force (TMF), a support group for President Bola Tinubu, says Nigerians will reject the opposition coalition and their new platform, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in 2027.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that opposition figures and aggrieved APC leaders have adopted the ADC as a platform to unseat Tinubu in 2027.

 

Reacting, TMF National Coordinator, Mr Gbenga Abiola, said on Wednesday the coalition was born from desperation, not conviction or a genuine desire to serve Nigerians.

 

He said: “The resurrection of the ADC is not based on principle, but is a desperate coalition of displaced politicians seeking lost relevance.

 

“It is neither visionary nor purposeful — just a forced alliance of familiar faces trying to revive their political careers without real solutions.”

 

According to him, the ADC is not a third force, but a weak version of the second — driven by frustration, not direction or unity of purpose.

 

“It is a patchwork held together by shared grievances, not shared goals or national interest.

 

“Nigerians must reject alliances offering only recycled chaos, unrepentant ambitions, and no clear path to progress or stability,” he said.

 

He said the coalition consists of two camps — ex-PDP powerbrokers and displaced APC elites from the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

 

He said the latter failed to hijack President Tinubu’s focused governance and thus chose to align with their former rivals.

 

“These individuals once wielded enormous influence and power under Buhari, controlling patronage and amassing vast wealth.

 

“However, Tinubu’s refusal to serve old interests or maintain outdated political structures has unsettled them deeply.

 

“Now, these power seekers stand with their former PDP rivals — under the ADC banner, craving control again,” he said.

 

Abiola said the name ‘ADC’ is phonetically similar to ‘APC’, a deliberate attempt to confuse unsuspecting voters.

 

“It is a low-effort strategy aimed at deception, but Nigerians are now more politically aware and discerning.

 

“We can see through the mimicry. This is not a movement — it’s a recycling hub for failed political ambition,” he said.

 

He said Tinubu’s government continues to deliver calm, focused, and policy-driven leadership across key sectors.

 

“From economic stabilisation to structural reforms, this administration is pursuing accountability, innovation, and national recovery.

 

“While the opposition distracts with noise, Nigerians are beginning to notice the difference sound leadership can make,” Abiola said.

 

He reaffirmed support for Tinubu’s vision and urged citizens to focus on lasting progress, not political distractions.

 

“We need builders of the future, not looters of past influence,” he added.

 

NAN recalls that ex-Senate President David Mark and ex-Governor Rauf Aregbesola were named ADC Interim Chairman and Secretary, respectively, on Tuesday.

 

On Wednesday, Mark officially launched the ADC as the platform for the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement.

 

Prominent opposition figures present included Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Datti Baba-Ahmed, and Rotimi Amaechi.

 

Others included Nasir El-Rufai, Abubakar Malami, Aminu Tambuwal, Ireti Kingibe, Liyel Imoke, and Bolaji Abdullahi.

 

Also in attendance were John Oyegun, Gabriel Suswam, Tunde Ogbeha, Mohammed Abubakar, Emeka Ihedioha, and Oserheimen Osunbor.

 

Victor Umeh, Celestine Omehia, Abdulfatah Ahmed, Bindow Jibrilla, Babachir Lawal, Aishatu Binani, and Dele Momodu also attended.

 

Sen. Dino Melaye, Prof. Olushola Eleka, and Sen. Ishaku Abbo were likewise present at the event. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Kamal Tayo Oropo

Nigeria, Saint Lucia sign manpower assistance deal
Foreign

Nigeria, Saint Lucia sign manpower assistance deal

129 total views today
‎‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
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‎Nigeria and Saint Lucia have signed a Technical Manpower Assistance (TMA) agreement to deploy skilled Nigerian professionals to the Caribbean nation.

 

A statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday said the pact aims to deepen South-South cooperation between the two countries.

 

The agreement was signed in Castries by Yusuf Yakub, Director-General of Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps, and Janelle Modeste-Stephen, Saint Lucia’s Acting Permanent Secretary.

 

Yakub described the agreement as “a great achievement” and a major step toward President Bola Tinubu’s vision of strengthened regional and bilateral partnerships.

 

“This is an outstanding achievement, just days after President Tinubu’s directive to deploy technical aid to Saint Lucia and the wider OECS,” he stated.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria also deployed four Technical Aid Corps (TAC) specialist nurses to Jamaica on Wednesday.

 

Yakub explained that the TMA deal enables Nigeria to send teachers, doctors, agriculturalists, and other professionals for two-year volunteer service.

 

He said the Nigerian government will cover allowances and logistics, while the host countries will provide accommodation and local support.

 

“These students who benefit from scholarships can reconnect with their heritage and cultural roots,” Yakub added.

 

He noted that since May 2023, over 300 Nigerian professionals have been deployed across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific under the revitalised TAC scheme.

 

“Since my appointment in August, we’ve deployed volunteers to Liberia, Sierra Leone, Jamaica, and other African countries.

 

“This programme was nearly dormant, but Mr President revived it through his proactive foreign policy direction.

 

“We are now sending more volunteers to Jamaica. Some are already there, and others will depart from Abuja tomorrow,” Yakub said.

 

Yakub added that four nurses will leave for Jamaica, while six medical doctors are scheduled to depart for Grenada on July 9.

 

He also disclosed ongoing talks with Belize, the Dominican Republic, and the OECS Director-General on a regional technical assistance framework.

 

“One Nigerian volunteer introduced Adire fabric in Jamaica. It became so popular, locals now produce and export it as Jadire,” Yakub revealed.

 

Beyond diplomacy, Yakub said the TAC programme is evolving into a revenue-generating venture due to growing international demand.

 

He stated that Jamaica has requested 400 Nigerian professionals and is ready to fund their deployment, moving away from Asian labour.

 

“We are exporting Nigeria’s human capital with dignity, boosting opportunities, and asserting leadership in the Global South,” he affirmed.

 

Yakub stressed that the TAC aligns with Tinubu’s 4D foreign policy: Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography.

 

The programme, he said, strengthens Nigeria’s global presence, supports professional growth, and builds ties with historically connected nations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
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