NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Customs waive import duty on pharmaceutical raw materials
Economy/Business

Customs waive import duty on pharmaceutical raw materials

234 total views today

By Martha Agas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has waived import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) on critical raw materials essential for pharmaceutical production for a period of two years.

Its Spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Maiwada explained that the waiver aligned with the Presidential directives to enhance local healthcare product manufacturing, reduce costs of medical equipment and consumables, and stimulate local investments.

He said that the waiver was part of the comprehensive guidelines approved by Mr Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, to actualise the objectives of the presidential directives.

According to him, this exemption covers Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), excipients, and other vital raw materials required for manufacturing essential medicines, Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), Rapid Diagnostic Kits, reagents, and packaging materials.

“To ensure that these fiscal incentives are fully utilised, eligibility is limited to manufacturers of pharmaceutical products recognised by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, provided they possess a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN).

“This measure will ensure that the benefits directly support legitimate manufacturers committed to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.”

The NCS spokesman also said that the Service would compile quarterly reports on all importations under this policy.

He said these would include data on importers, quantities, and values of the imported items, adding that this was with a view to ensuring that the implementation aligned with its intended objectives.

According to him, the reports reflect its commitment to transparency and the effective monitoring of the policy’s implementation to ensure its success.

“The NCS remains committed to supporting government policies, while fulfilling its mandate to facilitate trade, enhance border security, and drive national development.

“Successful implementation of this policy requires collaboration from all stakeholders, including importers, manufacturers, and relevant government agencies.

“Through our collective efforts, we can achieve the shared goal of a robust healthcare sector that meets the needs of all Nigerians.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

DMO declares N1.09trn Sukuk proceeds
Economy/Business

DMO declares N1.09trn Sukuk proceeds

205 total views today

By Kadiri Abdulrahman

The Debt Management Office (DMO) says the Federal Government has been able to raise a total of N1.09 trillion through the Sovereign Sukuk since 2017, to support infrastructure development.

The Director-General of the DMO, Patience Oniha, said this on Wednesday in Lagos, during “an all parties meeting” for the issuance of the seventh series of the Sovereign Sukuk.

She said that for the series, the plan is to raise about N300 billion to be used to finance capital projects.

According to Oniha, the meeting presented an opportunity to reflect on the progress that the DMO had made in the use of Sukuk as a means of raising funds for the government.

“We recall that the first Sukuk was issued in September 2017. After extensive marketing, the offer, which was for N100 billion with a tenor of seven years received a total subscription of N105.878 billion.

“Following the modest success of the first Sukuk and the achievement recorded from Sept. 2017 to Dec. 2023 when the last Sukuk was issued, the DMO has raised a total of N1.09 trillion.

“With this amount, over 4,100 km of roads and nine bridges across the six geopolitical zones in NIgeria and the Federal Capital Territory have either been constructed or rehabilitated, ” she said.

Oniha said that the projects had brought substantial benefits, including reduced travel time improved road safety and job creation.

She said that the projects also created improved access to markets for remote farmers, increased access to public services like education and healthcare, and economic development as a whole.

“In addition to those benefits, other reasons for the sustained issuance are the fact that the Sukuk is project-tied, promotes financial inclusion and contributes to the development of the domestic financial market,” she said.

She said that the Sukuk had been well accepted as demonstrated by the level of subscription received in the past.

She said that investors got fulfilment of contributing to infrastructure development, and also got a return in terms of income which is paid every six months.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the financial advisers represented at the meeting include, Lotus Financial Services Limited, Buraq Capital Limited, Stanbic IBTC Capital limited and Greenwich Merchant Bank Limited and Vetiva Capital Management Limited.

They play a crucial role in the issuance of Sovereign Sukuk, assisting the Federal Government of Nigeria through DMO.

Their responsibilities include advising on the structure of the Sukuk, managing the offering process, and facilitating investor participation.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Stakeholders to convene in Rwanda for Africa’s economic growth
General News

Stakeholders to convene in Rwanda for Africa’s economic growth

217 total views today

By Joshua Olomu

Economic stakeholders are set to convene in Kigali, Rwanda to foster inclusive discussions on Africa’s economic growth at the ‘100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit’.

Amb. Kingsley Amafibe, Project Director Africa, for the annual summit, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, Africa is currently experiencing its share of global economic challenges, and stakeholders need to embrace open dialogue to foster collaboration and partnerships essential for achieving economic growth.

He said a diverse group of stakeholders both from the public and private sectors, can provide a more complete understanding of the challenges and opportunities for economic growth in the continent.

The theme of the summit is, “Leadership Frameworks for Governance, Business Growth, Investment opportunities and Sustainable Development in Africa.

He said the event is scheduled for July 4 to 6 in Kigali, bringing together heads of corporate bodies and key industry players from different sectors across the Africa continent.

“The 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit 2025 is a prestigious event that brings together influential business leaders, industry experts, and thought leaders from around the world.

“It is time to look inward, discuss and explore key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the global business landscape, particularly as they affect our continent.

“This summit offers a unique platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, with a focus on driving innovation, fostering growth, and inspiring positive change.

“We shall assemble pacesetters across different sectors, including those in business, government, academia, security, entertainment and the civil society to discuss sustainable development, economic prosperity, among others.

“As we converge at the Marriot Hotel, Kigali, we hope to harness the transformative power of business and leadership to propel Africa and its people towards unprecedented heights of prosperity and well-being.

“The Leadership and Excellence honor will be given to deserving Africans, including peace and security icons, women leaders, and then Young Entrepreneurs”, he said.

He added that the event would feature keynote addresses, vibrant panel discussions, specialised workshops, and interactive sessions geared towards achieving inclusive economic opportunities and job creation across the continent.

The project director said the economic summit will feature key industry players and leaders as delegates, keynote speakers, and panelists, including Gov. Umar Namadi of Jigawa , Dr Imane Kendili, Chief Executive Officer, Global Health Morocco.

Others he said include Prof. Mthuli Ncube, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Nimi Briggs, Chief Executive Officer, NIMPAT Group, among others.

He said the key thematic area of focus at the summit includes futuristic governance policy, nascent business capacity enhancement, and focusing on streamlining businesses to fit perfectly into today’s highly competitive market.

Others, he said, include sectorial reforms, education, agriculture, infrastructural improvement, and human capacity development aimed at creating jobs and empowering young leaders across Africa. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

FG reiterates support for certification of Nigeria’s hydrogen Polis project
Science & Tech

FG reiterates support for certification of Nigeria’s hydrogen Polis project

314 total views today

By Emmanuel Jonathan

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has reiterated the Federal Government’s support for the certification of Nigeria’s Alternative Petroleum and Power Limited (APPL) hydrogen Polis project.

APPL is a privately owned Nigerian company focused on providing clean, efficient and environmentally friendly (reformed) fuels.

The Hydrogen Polis project was certified into the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC).

This is contained in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Dr Robert Ngwu, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The minister said that the onboarding and certification was awarded by Baltic Control Certification in Denmark, Greenhouse Gas (GHG), Calculations and certification in accordance with the ISCC EU standard.

He said that the onboarding of Nigeria’s APPL Hydrogen Polis project into ISCC Green Certification would strengthen Africa’s Position in the Global Green Economy.

Nnaji said that the milestone marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s green transition journey, and affirms the country’s leadership in climate-conscious industrial innovation.

“The ISCC certification is a globally recognised standard for verifying sustainability and traceability in supply chains.

“Achieving this certification positions the APPL Hydrogen Polis project as a benchmark for environmental stewardship, not only in Nigeria but across the African continent.

“The project’s alignment with international standards and underscores Africa’s growing capacity to lead in climate-aligned development,“he said.

Nnaji said that the development was more than a celebration of certification, adding that it is a powerful symbol of what is possible when African-led innovation meets global cooperation.

He said that under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we are determined to ensure that industrial growth and climate responsibility go hand-in-hand.

The minister said that the Hydrogen Polis project brings together a consortium of international sustainability leaders.

He said the presence of consortium of international sustainability leaders at the ceremony highlighted the project’s global relevance and technical excellence to include:

DFDS, Denmark, renowned for sustainable maritime logistics, ECOnnect Energy AS, Norway, Leaders in offshore, low-impact energy transfer infrastructure.

Others are Bergen Engines AS, Norway Manufacturers of efficient gas and diesel engines, H2 Core Systems GmbH, Germany: Innovators in modular green hydrogen systems.

Longi, represented by the VP of Europe, Global leaders in solar energy technology.

“Baltic Control AS, Copenhagen, Independent certification and compliance experts.

Nnaji explained that this multinational partnership exemplifies the synergy between local ambition and international expertise.

He said that through the Hydrogen Polis project, Nigeria is demonstrating that sustainable industrialisation is not only possible but also scalable and replicable across the continent.

The minister reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to providing the regulatory support, enabling environment and policy alignment required to sustain and expand initiatives like APPL.

“This project is a beacon for Africa. It tells the world that we are not just participating in the global green economy, we are ready to lead it.”

“The APPL Hydrogen Polis project is now set to play a crucial role in driving sustainable infrastructure, reducing carbon emissions and unlocking inclusive economic growth in Nigeria and beyond.

“For media inquiries, please contact: Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology Website: www.scienceandtech.gov.ng,” Nnaji added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu/Joseph Edeh

Tony Elumelu Foundation grants m to 3,000 African entrepreneurs
Business

Tony Elumelu Foundation grants $15m to 3,000 African entrepreneurs

255 total views today

By Kadiri Abdulrahman

The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has announced a $15 million grant to support 3,000 budding entrepreneurs from 52 African countries.

TEF Founder, Mr Tony Elumelu, made this known on Sunday in Abuja during the unveiling of the 2025 cohort of the foundation’s Entrepreneurship Programme.

He stated that each beneficiary would receive a $5,000 seed grant to kick-start their businesses.

Elumelu, who is also the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Transcorp, and United Bank for Africa (UBA), reaffirmed his commitment to empowering African entrepreneurs and transforming the continent’s economic landscape.

According to Elumelu, the foundation aims to democratise opportunity across the continent, fostering economic growth and providing young Africans with access to funding and mentorship.

“We had a vision that started in 2010; one that envisions a self-sustaining Africa, driven by the energy, vision, and resilience of young entrepreneurs.

“We understand the challenges they face in contributing to Africa’s economic transformation.

“If empowered and encouraged, these young Africans can drive meaningful change,” he said.

He noted that capital alone was not enough, highlighting the importance of business education, mentorship, and training in building successful entrepreneurs.

The entrepreneurship programme, which began in 2015, originally set out to economically empower 10,000 young Africans over 10 years, each receiving $5,000 in seed capital.

“This year marks the 15th anniversary of the foundation, and we have made a considerable impact across all 54 African countries.

“In the 21st century, Africa does not need aid; what it needs is investment in its youth,” Elumelu said.

TEF Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Somachi Chris-Asoluka, noted that since the programme’s launch in 2015, the foundation had.disbursed over $100 million to more than 21,000 young entrepreneurs across Africa.

According to Chris-Asoluka, these businesses have collectivel created 1.5 million enterprises, and generated $4.5 billion in revenue.

“Our entrepreneurs have demonstrated that ideas are the lifeblood of the African continent.

“For the 2025 cohort, we received over 200,000 applications, and from this pool, 3,000 entrepreneurs from 52 African countries will receive $15 million in funding.

“Each entrepreneur will receive a $5,000 non-refundable seed grant; this is neither a loan nor equity,” she stated.

She further assured that the foundation had a monitoring and evaluation platform in place to track progress after disbursement, ensuring that beneficiaries adhered to their approved business plans.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Arms: Local firm to reduce dependence on foreign procurement
Defence/Security

Arms: Local firm to reduce dependence on foreign procurement

293 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

D7G Nigeria Ltd, an indigenous defence related firm, has vowed to boost Nigeria’s defence capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign procurement of arms, through collaboration with Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

Retired Maj.-Gen. Mainasara Masanawa, Director, Land Systems, Innovation, Research and Development, DICON-D7G, said this in an interview with newsmen on Friday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, on Wednesday, inaugurated the DICON/D7G Board.

Musa had, in his remarks, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign arms procurement and enhancing its defence industrial base.

Masanawa said the joint venture was formed to develop Nigeria’s military industrial complex to enhance security in line with the DICON Act 2023, as well as President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on security.

“The company’s overall operation is actually self-financed and is committed to paying 30 per cent of its profit to the government on all manufactured or assembled goods or stocks in Nigeria, and 20 per cent profit to the stocks of goods that are imported.

“D7G in collaboration with DICON, is set to establish the first military jetty in Lagos on a land covering about 160,000 square meters.

“That military jetty is where we will have space and warehouses for a lot of activities because the land is vast.

“We will be, in addition to stocks of arms and ammunition, be assembling drones, unarmed aerial vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, 4×4 vehicles, 6×6 armoured personnel carriers and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles.

“The idea is also to use that opportunity to develop human capacity. Human capacity in the sense that we will employ skilled retired military specialists in the company.

“So the armed forces have trained them so much and most of them have retired and they are going with their knowledge. This is an opportunity to bring them back and tap from them,” he said.

Masanawa said the joint venture had led to production and assembling of arms in Kaduna factory that would be readily available to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, while developing their factory in Lagos.

He said the company would also go into ship building when its factory comes on stream.

“During the DICON at 60, we brought in eight foreign companies under our umbrella, and we are going to leverage on that, develop the capacity in defence production for Nigerian armed forces, security agencies, intelligence, and other paramilitary organisations.

“By that also, we will save the government funds, that is, forex, because we can sell our goods and services, both in naira and in hard currency,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Chioma Ugboma

Niger Delta monarchs rally support against vandalism, oil theft
Economy/Business , Niger Delta

Niger Delta monarchs rally support against vandalism, oil theft

387 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Association of Niger Delta Monarchs of Nigeria (ANDMON) has called on stakeholders to support the Federal Government in curbing pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the region.

Chairman of the association, HM Frank Okurakpo, Odhe II, made the call in a statement on Saturday.

He said this during an interactive meeting between ANDMON and stakeholders in the Amnesty, Pipeline Surveillance, and Energy sectors in Port Harcourt.

The traditional ruler stated that the association is committed to accelerating development in all towns and villages in the Niger Delta.

“The association is willing to collaborate and partner with the federal government, multinational organisations, and other critical stakeholders to restore peace in the region.

“We are keen to achieve the federal government’s desire to meet and exceed the OPEC production quota,” he said.

Okurakpo commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing a “grassroots mobiliser” from the Niger Delta, Dr Dennis Otuaro, as the head of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

“This is one appointment that gladdens the heart of our people. No doubt, the programme is recording remarkable success across the Niger Delta region.

“We, therefore, lend our voice to the demand for increased budgetary provisions and the timely release of appropriated funds,” he said.

He also lauded the Tinubu-led administration for renewing the pipeline surveillance contract with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. (TSSNL), saying it will help curb pipeline vandalism.

“It is worthy to note that TSSNL has exceeded the expectations of the Nigerian public in its determination to reduce pipeline vandalism and oil theft to the barest minimum,” he said.

The chairman called on Niger Delta communities to support the federal government’s efforts to ramp up oil production and protect oil facilities in the region.

He expressed confidence that Nigeria will soon witness stability in the energy sector, leading to the fast-tracked socio-economic development of the nation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Illegal mining: FG arrests 327 suspects, prosecutes 143
Economy/Business

Illegal mining: FG arrests 327 suspects, prosecutes 143

277 total views today

By Martha Agas

The Federal Government says it has arrested 327 suspects for illegal mining and prosecuted 143 across the country since the Mining Marshals (MM) began operations in 2024.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, made the disclosure at a news conference marking the one-year anniversary of the operations of the marshals.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the MM, a security outfit of the solid minerals sector, was inaugurated on March 21, 2024, to address the surge in illegal mining activities across the country.

The security personnel were drawn from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and trained in strategic and tactical skills to detect, engage, and combat illegal miners, bandits, and other criminal elements in the sector.

NAN also reports that MM began operations with 2,220 personnel, which has since been increased to 2,670.

Alake stated that a key target for the marshals in 2025 was to secure the conviction of the 327 individuals arraigned in court to enhance deterrence and enforce compliance with the law.

He also acknowledged the contributions of government agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the army for their efforts in the drive to sanitise the solid minerals sector.

“This month, the Federal High Court, Ilorin, Kwara State, sentenced two foreigners, Yang Chao and Wu Shan Chuan, to prison for illegal mining of solid minerals following a case prosecuted by EFCC.

“We also commend the EFCC for its diligent prosecution of illegal miners.

“In May last year, the EFCC successfully prosecuted and secured the conviction of two other foreigners, Duan Ya Hong and Xiao Yi, to one year of imprisonment for illegal mining at another Federal High Court, also sitting in Ilorin, Kwara State,” he said.

According to him, the MM have played a crucial role in tackling the severity of illegal mining, which has been exacerbated by companies collaborating with individual miners to carry out the act.

He added that the marshals had reclaimed 98 mining sites since beginning operations by clearing illegal miners who had occupied licensed areas for more than a decade, preventing the rightful owners from operating.

“According to our records, MM recovered over 98 sites last year. This has enabled many licence owners to return to site and resume operations.

“This will, ultimately, improve royalties and raise the contribution of the solid minerals to the country’s revenue.

“So far, the MM has identified 457 suspected illegal mining sites and has improved intelligence gathering on these sites,” he said.

According to the minister, the mining marshals use technology in their operations, including miniature robots and drones for surveillance.

He added that they employed communication tools to deliver early warnings, effectively distinguishing unarmed civilians from armed bandits, who are the main targets of their operations.

He said that the MM, in its second year of operations, would increase their engagements in other parts of the states.

Alake emphasised that MM previously held direct engagements across 10 states: Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Kaduna, Enugu, Abia, Kwara and the Federal Capital Territory.

The minister said that in addition to the kinetic measures used to combat illegal mining, non-kinetic measures would be intensified to strengthen the relationship between the government and artisanal miners and expand the registration of cooperatives.

He disclosed that the number of personnel would be expanded, and more logistics, including vehicles and other equipment, would be provided to the Mining Marshals to strengthen their operational capacity.

He urged them to prepare for tougher tasks as the government consolidates its operations to remove more illegal miners from sites and ensure their prosecution.

On his part, the Commandant of the Mining Marshals, John Attah, said their operations were guided by the provisions of the law and reaffirmed their commitment to flushing out illegal miners.

Attah thanked the minister for his support and urged the public to view their operations as a national project aimed at the country’s progress. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Peter Amine

Korean agency trains 110 Jigawa civil servants on e-governance
Foreign

Korean agency trains 110 Jigawa civil servants on e-governance

241 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, has trained 110 Jigawa civil servants on e-governance to enhance Nigeria’s digital transformation process.

The agency announced this in a statement on Friday signed by Kayode Adebisi, its Program Manager on Digital Governance.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme, which held from March 18 to 20, is a capacity-building programme tagged:‘Project for Building Foundations Towards Digital Governance in Nigeria.’

According to Adewusi, the training focuses on enhancing participants’ basic IT skills and understanding of e-governance to improve governance and service delivery.

Gov. Umar Namadi of Jigawa expressed his deep appreciation to KOICA for its unwavering support toward fostering capacity-building for the state’s civil servants.

“This training programme is a significant step toward realising our digital transformation agenda in Jigawa State.

“We are committed to leveraging the skills and knowledge acquired during this training to enhance governance, improve service delivery and drive sustainable development,” he said.

Namadi also urged all participants to put their newly acquired skills to good use in advancing the state’s digital future.

The governor also unveiled the Jigawa OneAPI programme, a strategic initiative aimed at enabling system interoperability and seamless data exchange between pilot ministries in the state.

According to him, the initiative marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to digitise governance and enhance service efficiency.

Mr. Kim Eunsub, KOICA’s Country Director, emphasised that KOICA was committed to supporting Nigeria’s digitalisation agenda.

He said that the agency was doing this by equipping government officials with essential skills to drive innovation, transparency, and effective administration through e-governance solutions.

“The extension of this training to the subnational level underscores KOICA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring inclusive digital transformation across Nigeria.

“By cascading these initiatives to state governments, we aim to bridge the digital divide between federal and state institutions, fostering a seamless and efficient governance framework,” he said.

KIM also commended the state government for its progressive digital transformation efforts, noting that the initiatives reflected a forward-thinking approach to governance.

He expressed confidence that the knowledge and skills acquired during the training by the 110 civil servant beneficiaries would serve as critical enablers for advancing the state’s digital agenda.

The Country Director also reiterated KOICA’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation journey through training, capacity building, and strategic partnerships that empower government institutions at all levels.

NAN also reports that the highpoint of the event was the award of special prizes to the top three participants in recognition of their outstanding performance during the training.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Customs distributes learning materials to GSS Wuse students
Education , General News

Customs distributes learning materials to GSS Wuse students

301 total views today

By Martha Agas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has distributed learning aids, including books, school bags, and writing materials, to 1,300 students of Government Secondary School (GSS), Wuse Zone 3, Abuja.

This event marked the official inauguration of the NCS’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) unit, Customs Cares.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NCS recently established its CSR Unit, Customs Cares, to drive programmes aligned with the eight presidential priority areas and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking at the event on Thursday, the NCS Comptroller-General (C-G), Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised that students would not only receive learning aids but also scholarships to support their academic growth.

He further stated that the Customs Cares Initiative would focus on rehabilitating critical infrastructure at the school and other institutions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones as part of the NCS’s contribution to the educational sector.

“This initiative represents the first of many interventions planned across our operational areas in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

“We will follow this model in other areas, ensuring regular consultations, as advised by the Minister of Education.

“In collaboration with the school, the NCS identified security gaps and has installed CCTV cameras and solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety on the premises.

“Renovation work on the school’s auditorium is also set to begin soon,” said Adeniyi.

Adeniyi emphasized that the selection of GSS Wuse Zone 3 was not coincidental, citing the NCS’s historical connection to the community.

He highlighted that the school adoption initiative was a long-term commitment and plans to extend it to one school in each Local Area Council within the Federal Capital Territory, tailoring interventions to each institution’s specific needs.

“Customs Cares is designed to foster community empowerment through a comprehensive approach to CSR, focusing on education, healthcare, social investments, environmental sustainability, food security, and the creative economy.”

He noted that the initiative would be implemented in phases, focusing on addressing critical social, educational, and infrastructural gaps in underserved communities.

“Strategic partnerships with local stakeholders, government agencies, and international organisations will help ensure the long-term success of the programme.

“The NCS has committed to earmarking 4 per cent of its annual wage bill, equivalent to 50 percent of each officer’s one-month salary, to fund the initiative.

“Additionally, numerous officers have pledged personal contributions to support various aspects of the project.”

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, lauded Customs for the initiative and encouraged collaboration with relevant education bodies to ensure tailored interventions.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, also commended the NCS for its impactful CSR efforts, recognising the role it plays in securing a bright future for the nation’s youth.

Edun said President Bola Tinubu’s administration was working diligently to secure a bright future for the younger generation through its economic reforms, particularly the deregulation of the oil sector and foreign exchange policy.

Mrs Josephine Chizoba Ugwu, Principal of GSS Wuse Zone 3, expressed gratitude for the intervention, noting that it would inspire students to excel academically and in character.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email