NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
CSOs seek UN action over U.S. migrant deportations
Foreign

CSOs seek UN action over U.S. migrant deportations

300 total views today

By Diana Omueza

The Human Rights Monitors, a coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), is calling for the United Nations’ intervention in response to mass deportations of migrants by the United States.

Mr Armsfree Ajanaku, Convener of the coalition, made the appeal during a news conference, on Thursday in Abuja.

The event was themed “Violation of Immigrants’ Rights and the Quest for Justice Through African Reparations.”

Ajanaku said the coalition had monitored various human rights violations related to the arbitrary deportations of immigrants from the U.S. since January 20.

Many of those affected, he said, were Africans and people of African descent.

“While we are not saying a country cannot run its affairs as it deems fit, our concern is with actions that undermine rights, dignity, and civilised norms,” he said.

He described scenes of migrant homes being raided, mass arrests, and families torn apart, with parents detained and children left traumatised.

“These actions, from a country that prides itself on democracy and human rights, clearly violate the rights of asylum seekers and migrants,” Ajanaku said.

He alleged that the United States was denying refuge to those fleeing war zones and political persecution, in contravention of multiple international human rights agreements.

The coalition raised these concerns at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Switzerland in April.

Ajanaku cited breaches of international laws, including: Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: protection against arbitrary arrest and exile.

“Article 14: the right to seek asylum; Article 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights: protection from inhumane treatment.

“As well as violations of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Their Families, and the 1951 Refugee Convention.

“Refugees and immigrants seeking asylum are lawful under both U.S. and international law. Under no circumstance should they be criminalised for entering without visas,” he said.

Ajanaku urged the UN to take legal steps to address the plight of migrants facing forced and arbitrary deportation and to engage with affected persons through CSOs and refugee-focused agencies.

He also called on African leaders to strengthen institutions and infrastructure that could improve the welfare and safety of their citizens, both at home and abroad.

He said with effective systems in place, the people would be more likely to remain in their countries, eliminate barriers to progress, and benefit from good governance.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Abiemwense Moru

House committee tasks MDAs, others on FOI
Politics

House committee tasks MDAs, others on FOI

299 total views today

By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The House Committee on Freedom of Information (FOI) has urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and corporate organisations to leverage the FOI Act to advance the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals and good governance.

This is contained in a statement signed on Thursday in Abuja by the clerk of the committee, Mrs Felicia Idowu.

She said it was important to engage public institutions on their roles in achieving the objectives behind the FOI Act.

According to her, the law aims at improving the lives of Nigerians by ensuring inclusivity, open government, transparency and accountability.

“It is on this note that the Committee on FOI plans to hold a National strategic stakeholders workshop on June 24 and June 25.

“It is targeted at Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the Federal, States and Local Governments; other public institutions and corporations.

“It will attract authorities whether executive, legislative or judicial agencies, ministries, and extra-ministerial departments of the government.

“It will also involve all corporations established by law and all companies in which government has a controlling interest, and private companies utilizing public funds, providing public services or performing public functions,” she said.

Idowu said that the event would be facilitated by TIMDAVE Global limited to promote, enhance and advance the implementation of the FOI law in Nigeria.

She said the programme would also involve Civil Society Organisations as well as all corporate organisations that utilise government resources, as custodians of information.

The FOI Act was enacted on May 28, 2011.

However, 14 years after establishment its implementation by government institutions and corporate organisations has remained poor. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Lagos MSME tripartite agreement to spur finance access for entrepreneurs – BoI
Economy/Business

Lagos MSME tripartite agreement to spur finance access for entrepreneurs – BoI

283 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe and Aderonke Ojediran

The Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Dr Olasupo Olusi, has described its tripartite agreement with the Lagos State Government and Sterling Bank Plc’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as a new chapter for entrepreneurs in the state.

Olusi said this at the signing of the Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) of the Lagos State Access to Finance for SMEs through Cooperatives on Wednesday in Lagos.

He said the development would spur access, opportunity and inclusion for entrepreneurs in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the development comes as a groundbreaking partnership bringing together the public and private sectors in a shared mission to empower entrepreneurs.

Olusi stated that the strategic initiative would enhance the potential of Lagos’ MSMEs by dismantling structural barriers that had long constrained access to opportunity.

Olusi revealed that BoI currently had over N500 billion in investment footprints across Lagos State, which was more than any other state in Nigeria.

This development, he asserted, reflected the bank’s longstanding confidence in the energy, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Lagos people.

“This strategic effort will unlock the creativity, resilience, and potential of Lagos’ MSMEs by dismantling the structural barriers that have long constrained access to opportunity.

“At the Bank of Industry, we believe MSMEs are the engine of economic growth; driving innovation, creating jobs, and expanding opportunities.

“However, we also know that without access to finance, their potential remains limited.

“This is why the Government of President Bola Tinubu is focused on delivering access to financeto the MSME segment of Nigerian enterprises and this programme is designed to change that,” he said.

Olusi said the MSME scheme targeted key sectors central to Lagos State’s development including healthcare, manufacturing, agribusiness, creative industries and the digital economy.

He, however, stressed that beyond the funding, the programme aimed to support the entire working ecosystem built for success.

He stated that the initiative was fully technology-driven, from application to disbursement, ensuring speed, transparency, and real-time impact tracking.

He added that up to 50 per cent of the fund was backed by a bank guarantee, therefore de-risking the lending process and building stakeholder confidence.

Olusi said that access to the funds would be facilitated through certified cooperatives, which will ensure structure, trust, and accountability.

“Finally, there is an accelerator programme, offering MSMEs mentorship, training, and digital tools to help them grow and compete.

“At the heart of it all is accessibility as under this scheme, MSMEs can access up to N10 million at a single-digit interest rate of nine per cent per annum, without collateral.

“This removes one of the biggest obstacles facing small businesses and brings inclusive finance within real reach. It’s an approach backed by experience.

“The N10 billion fund is the first partof a scalable, performance-based agreement and as goals are met, the fund can grow, fostering continuous growth and empowerment,” he said.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his remarks, lauded the BoI and Sterling Bank for the partnership.

Sanwo-Olu charged beneficiaries to use the funding to grow their businesses, repay on schedule to engender more access to funding opportunities.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to creating an environment that supported the growth and development of MSMEs.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

NOUN strategises to strengthen open, distance learning
Education

NOUN strategises to strengthen open, distance learning

304 total views today

By Emmanuel Afonne

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, says the institution is re-strategising to strengthen its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) pattern of education.

Mafiana said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

He noted that other universities under the auspices of Open, Distance and e-Learning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN) would be carried along.

Mafiana said ODeLAN would collaborate with NOUN to strengthen the field of the ODL, using adaptive technologies.

“This is the reason we have decided to hold the third edition of the ODeLAN International Conference in Nigeria, from May 14 to May 16, 2025 at the Conference Centre, NOUN Headquarters, Abuja.

“The theme of the conference is Adaptive Pedagogies for the Future of Education: Connecting Learners, Technologies and Communities,” Mafiana said.

Mafiana, who doubles as the Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the conference, said participants are expected to explore innovative open educational approaches and models for shaping the future of learning in African contexts across all educational levels.

He said the annual conference would also explore practical, engaging approaches to connect learners, technologies and communities for a brighter educational future.

Mafiana said the event would witness the convergence of educators, academics, researchers and practitioners from universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and pre-tertiary levels.

He added that policy makers, industry professionals, government agency representatives and the general public would participate in the event.

Mafiana said the conference would feature paper presentations, panel discussions and workshops, with focus on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in open, distance, and e-learning.

“Prof. Peter Scott, President Commonwealth of Learning, Canada; Prof. Mpine Makoe, Executive Dean College of Education, University of South Africa and Prof. Tayo Arulogun, Vice-Chancellor, Miva Open University, Abuja Nigeria, are the keynote speakers,” he said.

It would be recalled that the first series of the international conference was held at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun, in 2023 with the theme, “Global Spaces, Local Contexts: Digital Transformations and Creative Innovations in Open Distance and e-learning “.

The second edition was held at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 2024 with the theme: “Inclusive Digital Learning Ecosystems in Open, Distance and e-learning Education”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Nigeria to scale-up fight against sickle cell disease
Health

Nigeria to scale-up fight against sickle cell disease

292 total views today

By Abigael Joshua

The Global Congress on Sickle Cell Disease has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against sickle cell disease (SCD) in Nigeria.

Prof. Obiageli Nnodu the Local Organising Committee Chairperson of the Global Congress on Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

“As the nation with the highest prevalence of sickle cell disease, Nigeria stands at the forefront of the global fight against the disease.

“Sickle Cell Disease is a global health challenge that affects an estimated 7.7 million people worldwide, according to World Health Organisation (WHO).

“Nigeria alone bears a significant burden, with four to six million people living with the condition and many more carrying the sickle cell trait,” she said.

According to her, the Global Congress on Sickle Cell Disease will hold in Abuja from June 3 to June 6.

“The congress aims to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and spotlight effective solutions for managing and ultimately eradicating SCD.

“The congress will bring again more attention to the burden of Sickle Cell Disease in Africa especially Nigeria that accounts for the world largest number of people leaving with the burden globally.

 “We’re excited to host the Global Congress on Sickle Cell Disease at this time in Africa! This prestigious event first came to Africa in 2010 in Ghana.

“This year, we’re expecting over 500 participants from around the world, including Nigeria,” she said.

She noted that the lineup of world-renowned speakers will be showcased daily on their social media platforms.

“We are proud to have the support of the Ministry of Health and we are working closely with the Global Sickle Cell Disease Network.

“We are also partnering with Novo-Nordisk, Novartis, Revvity, Pfizer, Pierre Fabre Foundations, the American Society of Hematology and Bond Chemical Industry Ltd and the Centre for Communication and Social Impact.

“The congress will bring together healthcare professionals, researchers, patients, families, caregivers, advocates, industry leaders, and policymakers from across the world,” she said.

Nnodu said that the congress will feature latest research findings, innovative treatments and therapies on Sickle Cell Disease.

NAN reports that the Global Congress on Sickle Cell Disease is a world-renowned conference that brings together individuals and organisations from around the world to discuss and advance the understanding, treatment, and support for people living with SCD. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Waqf: Al-Habibiyyah unveils Islamic blueprint for sustainable development
General News , Religious

Waqf: Al-Habibiyyah unveils Islamic blueprint for sustainable development

348 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS) has unveiled a bold and inclusive Islamic initiative aimed at tackling poverty and accelerating community growth/national development.

The National Chief Imam of AIS, Sheik Fuad Adeyemi, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja at a workshop for management staff of the organisation ahead of the inauguration of the Al-Habibiyyah Waqf Foundation and other developmental projects.

According to Adeyemi, Waqf is a strategic Islamic charitable endowment involving the dedication of assets or properties whose benefits are channeled toward community development.

He said that income generated from the Waqf assets are used for humanity and public good such as building schools, Mosques, healthcare or supporting less privileged in the society.

The Imam highlighted how businesses can be endowed through Waqf to ensure continuity, serve humanitarian causes and tackle poverty in the country.

He said “if you notice in Nigeria, almost all the businesses, the moment the owner dies, that is the end of the business.

“But with Waqf, you can endow the business in an Islamic way, and such business will be taken over
and be used for the good of the people.

“These are the things we want to promote for the benefit of humanity.”

Adeyemi said that aside the Waqf  Foundation, other developmental initiatives to be inaugurated include the “Faith and Philanthropy Initiative”, in collaboration with McArthur Foundation.

Others are the Al-Habibiyyah Rural Initiative, Estate Planning and Allied Services (EPAS), Diaspora Support Services, Volunteer Mobilisation and African Mosque Forum.

He explained that AIS would collaborate with business associations, strategic stakeholders such as the Corporate Affairs Commission and Islamic banks to drive the various initiatives.

He expressed confidence that the initiatives would provide sustainable, faith-based solutions to the challenges of poverty and underdevelopment across the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was attended by development experts, Islamic scholars, business management experts and media consultants. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Africa Day: Nigeria hosts 35 nations in Abuja
Foreign

Africa Day: Nigeria hosts 35 nations in Abuja

391 total views today

By Angela Atabo

Nigeria will play host to no fewer than 35 countries with different speakers at the 61st Africa Day celebration scheduled for May 24 to May 27 in Abuja.

Mr Young Piero, Coordinator and Director of Parliament, Africa, Caribbean and Pacific Joint Sessions, Africa Union Simulation (AUS), disclosed this at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Africa Day celebrates the day when the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to the African Union (AU), was formed in 1963.

NAN also reports that Africa Day celebrations acknowledge the progress Africans have made, while reflecting upon the common challenges faced in a global environment.

Piero said the discussions at the 61st edition of the day would focus on continental unity, borderless Africa, intra-African trade, cultural exchange, and the AU’s Vision 2030 initiative for a single African passport.

He said the event will also spotlight youths and women inclusion, patriotism, and African cultural values.

“The 61st Africa Day celebration aims to create a unified continental voice that drives meaningful development and promotes a more united and progressive Africa.

“This year’s celebration is going to be different in the sense that we are collaborating with all organisations in Nigeria and Africa that are doing fabulously well in their own field, in terms of building the Africa that we want,’’ he said.

Piero added that the event would afford the continent the opportunity to celebrate itself, the culture, originality and instill in the people the concept of “Africa first,

“Africa is where the treasure lies, and we are building Africa that will become a global powerhouse of the future,’’ he said.

Speaking in the same veins, the President of the Afro-Caribbean Chamber, Quadri-Adu Kehinde, said that ahead of the 2025 Africa Day, a liberation walk would be held to emphasise the essence freedom.

“The time of slavery is gone and this is a time that we need to move together and work together. That is the essence of the liberation walk,’’ he said.

Kehinde said other key activities of the event included, discussion on Africa’s development as well as sessions for youths, women among other groups.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Phil Roberts, commended Nigerian government for its support in hosting the event and stressed the importance of patriotism in Africa’s journey to progress. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

FG woos African countries on data protection
Science & Tech

FG woos African countries on data protection

324 total views today

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Federal Government has urged African countries to collaborate on the protection of data on the continent and beyond.

Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, said this at the 8th edition of conference of Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) in Abuja.

The Federal Government used the occasion to inaugurate the Nigeria Virtual Privacy Academy aimed at deepening data protection initiatives.

The three-day conference has as its theme: “Balancing Innovation, in Africa: Data Protection and Privacy in Emerging Technologies.”

It drew participants from no fewer than 30 African countries, Europe, Asia, Middle East and the U.S.

Represented by Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Shettima said the journey to data privacy began when African Charter was domesticated in 1983.

He said it was domesticated in Nigeria through the 1999 constitution.

He said the the conference was a testament to the progressive nature of the Nigeria’s legal framework for data protection.

According to him, the government remains committed to the implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023.

The VP said that data was not just a digital resource but a human story told in numbers, which serves as a tool to build economic trust.

“As the Africa continent expands the scale of its African exchange, our ability to share data securely and lawfully will define our capacity to thrive.

“That is why forums like this are not only welcome but essential, they offer us the chance to cross-pollinate ideas, to nurture human capital, and to strengthen mechanisms for mutual legal assistance.

“They allow us to create an African consensus on data governance that respects our people and reflects our values, ” he said.

He called on the participants at the conference to utilise the opportunity to shape the right strategies for Africa in the area of data privacy.

Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, inaugurated the Nigeria Virtual Privacy Academy.

The academy is part of government’s initiative towards harnessing the benefits of a digital economy.

Tijani said the academy was aimed at delivering virtual training in data protection and privacy across both the public sector and the private sector.

“Recognising the opportunities across our continent, we have also set up a digital trade desk, a one-stop platform to promote Nigeria’s need to export, while unlocking global market opportunities for tech-enabled businesses.

“To fully harness the benefits of this and other initiatives, we see data as the backbone and digital protection as the shield.

“As we digitise government services, open up digital trade corridors, and advance the need for digital identity on the platform, we must ensure that our value chains are secure, fair, and transparent,” he said.

According to him, it offers Nigerians access to practical training on data protection principles and easy cyber identity.

The Chairperson of NADPA, Mr Iro Adamou, said the primary goal of NADPA was to foster collaboration among members and amplify African voices in its interaction with global partners in data protection.

Represented by Mrs Immaculate Kassiat, the NADPA Vice President, Adamou reiterated that the protection of personal data was a shared responsibility across all African countries.

“Human beings, regardless of gender, share common characteristics and it is necessary to safeguard, preserve their rights of personal data in this evolving digital landscape.

“Our presence in Abuja serves as a testament to the unity and shared aspiration of Africa and together we are committed to advancing towards a trustworthy digital environment that safeguards the privacy of individuals,” he said.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of NDPC, said Nigeria was focused on enabling a future-proof regulatory environment that supports innovation and advances data protection.

“We have carried out over 5,047 compliance assessments, about 223 investigations, and 12 different organisations from different sectors have gone through remediation.

“In terms of revenue to government, within less than two years, we were able to generate over $1.2 million to government in terms of registration fee, audit filing fee, and compliance fee.

“On the part of data controllers and processors, we have established, collaborated with data protection authorities across Africa and signed Memorandums of Understanding,” he said.

He said that NADPA would continue to evolve as a central platform for continental data governance.

“I urge all member states who are yet to enact a data protection legislation, to do so without delay as strong data protection laws are not barriers to innovation, but enablers of inclusive digital economy.”

Mr Gautier Mignot, European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, represented by Ms Inga Stefanowicz, Head of Green and Digital Economy pledged EU’s continued support towards policies that promoted better frameworks in Africa.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that NADPA was established in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, in September 2016, at a side event to the African forum on personal data protection. (NAN)www.nannews.ng

Edited by Uche Anunne

Digital skills: FG trains 200,000 Nigerians on artificial intelligence
Science & Tech

Digital skills: FG trains 200,000 Nigerians on artificial intelligence

395 total views today

By Emmanuel Afonne

The Federal Government says it has trained no fewer than 200,000 Nigerians on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies in order to build a digitally skilled workforce for the country.

Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at the 10th Annual Symposium and Awards of the American Chemical Society (ACS), Nigeria International Chemical Sciences Chapter.

The event was hosted by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) with the theme “Advancing Sustainability through AI-Driven Chemistry”.

According to Nnaji, the ministry is spearheading the formulation of a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, designed to provide a unified roadmap for ethical and inclusive AI adoption across the country.

Nnaji, who was represented by Dr Patricks Oghuma, Special Assistant to the Minister and Team Lead Technical & Administration, Minister’s Project Delivery, Monitoring and Evaluation (PROD-ME), said that the training would position Nigeria as a continental leader in responsible AI innovation.

“Today, we find ourselves at the crossroads of a revolution where artificial intelligence and chemistry converge to create new frontiers; this powerful synergy offers a vision of the future in which innovation and sustainability work hand in hand.

“This gathering is a remarkable milestone that exemplifies our collective commitment to innovation and academic excellence.

“As we explore the theme of sustainability through AI-driven chemistry, let us remember that the future is not predetermined – it is shaped by our actions today.

“Chemists have a vital role to play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); however, many brilliant scientific contributions remain buried in journals or academic shelves, never reaching the industries or policymakers that could bring them to life.

“The disconnect between research, application and policy is a critical issue; we must bridge this gap through transformational research that embraces AI, and is designed to solve real-world problems.

“Let me reiterate, chemistry is at the heart of the SDGs; no meaningful progress can be made without the contribution of this field, and this symposium provides a valuable opportunity to generate ideas that will strengthen our nation,” Nnaji said.

(Left to Right) Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, NOUN Deputy Vice-Chancellor receiving an award from Prof. Joshua Obaleye, immediate past Chair, ACS, Nigeria

Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, said that the role of chemistry as a foundational science had never been more critical as the world grapples with complex global challenges like insecurity, banditry, climate change and so on.

Peters, was represented by Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, NOUN Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

“It is the infusion of AI, with its power to model, predict, and optimise, that now opens new frontiers in reducing waste and energy consumption; optimising chemical processes and improving the development of more sustainable technologies and solutions.

“At NOUN, we are deeply committed to the ideals of accessible, Technology-Enhanced education and cutting-edger research that addresses national development and global goals.

“This symposium aligns perfectly with our institutional vision of fostering innovation that is both scientifically rigorous and socially responsible. Thus, as a practicing chemist, I am elated, albeit excited to be hosting this epoch-making event.

“The conversations during this symposium from AI-enhanced green chemistry to sustainable materials and smart manufacturing, should not just be seen as mere academic pursuit, but in addition, as essentials to building a resilient, knowledge-driven economy in Nigeria and across Africa,” Peters said.

Prof. Edu Inam, Chair, ACS Nigeria, said the society had sustained efforts at organising campus events and outreach programmes to participate in research and mentorship activities.

Awards were given to deserving members of the society including Peters and the immediate past Chair, ACS Nigeria, Prof. Joshua Obaleye. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

FG, AFD partner to boost project delivery
Economy/Business

FG, AFD partner to boost project delivery

317 total views today

By Nana Musa

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Emeka Obi, says collaboration with the French Development Agency (AFD) will improve project implementation.

 

He stated this during a training programme on AFD Procurement Guidelines, held on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

The programme was organised by the AFD in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning.

 

Obi, represented by Director of Economic Growth, Auwal Mohammed, said both agencies aimed to enhance implementation at federal and sub-national levels.

 

He added that the Nigerian Government and AFD remained committed to supporting projects to achieve their objectives.

 

Obi stressed that procurement was vital to project delivery and urged participants to take the training seriously.

 

“Procurement involves sourcing, purchasing, receiving, and inspecting goods and services needed for operations, including materials, software, and office supplies,” he said.

 

He warned that procurement is often overlooked until challenges arise, making prevention more important than cure.

 

“That is why we always say, prevention is better than cure,” Obi noted.

 

He explained the training aimed to equip officers with full understanding of AFD procurement procedures and processes.

 

This knowledge, he said, would support informed decisions about products or services – considering price, quality, quantity, and timing.

 

Obi noted the training would also address consultancies, goods, and works contracts covered by the guidelines.

 

He added that there would be a comparative review of Nigerian Procurement Regulations and AFD Procurement Guidelines.

 

He praised AFD for its support towards the government’s development goals and public service delivery.

 

AFD Country Director in Nigeria, Xavier Muron, said two billion euros in development projects were ongoing in the country.

 

Muron said AFD had operated in Nigeria since 2008 and had funded over three billion euros in projects to date.

 

He noted the current projects include infrastructure, education, vocational training, water, and healthcare.

 

“Some of the projects were concluding, while others were just beginning.

 

“Our financing has grown. Currently, two billion euros are in active investments across Nigeria,” Muron said.

 

He encouraged implementing agencies to actively engage in the training for effective project delivery.

 

Muron said sectors supported include infrastructure, water, governance, education, and vocational training – which is a new focus.

 

“Agriculture is not yet covered, but we plan to expand with value chain and growth programmes,” he added.

 

He emphasised that procurement was critical for the success of AFD-funded initiatives.

 

The training, he said, aimed to build capacity among implementation partners on AFD procurement standards.

 

“Our guidelines follow international best practices and help partners comply with procurement requirements,” Muron explained.

 

The training would also allow partners to share experiences, challenges, and possible areas of improvement.

 

“We want Nigerian agencies to fully understand our procurement rules to avoid project delays,” he stated.

 

Muron warned that incorrect procurement procedures could slow down programme delivery.

 

“We want you updated on regulations so we don’t waste time due to procurement setbacks,” he added.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training aligns Nigeria’s procurement standards with those of international donors like the World Bank.

 

AFD Procurement Specialist, Mr Antonio Velasco, said the training would cover finance and consultancy procurement procedures.

 

He said participants would be trained on bidding documents, applicable rules, and procurement security.

 

NAN also reports that the training included AFD staff, government officials, and state-level MDA representatives. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Josephine Obute / Kamal Tayo Oropo

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