NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Taxation: CITN inducts 1,461 new members

Taxation: CITN inducts 1,461 new members

281 total views today

By Kadiri Abdulrahman

Taxation stakeholders have called for ethical tax practices to enable the nation boost its non-oil revenue.

The stakeholders spoke at the 52nd induction ceremony of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) in Abuja on Thursday.

Prof. Yusuf Ali, the Special guest of honour at the event, said that the importance of taxation in any serious society could be underlined by the fact that tax evasion attracts severe punishment.

Ali, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said in such societies, evasion of tax is equated with killing so many people.

According to him, one of the challenges Nigeria has had is that we are used to freebies.

“In first republic, each of the three regions was contributing to the national purse. Nigerians showed interest in the common wealth of the country because they were all contributing to generate the revenue.

“But when oil money came, we went off target and taxes became relegated. When people pay taxes, they hold those in charge responsible.

“In advanced societies, the central government taxes the states for the resources they generate. For us to make progress, we must retrace our steps.

“If we rely on taxes, we will be more interested in making our leaders account for the way they spend our money. All Nigerians should imbibe the habit of willingly fulfilling their tax obligations,” he said.

The CITN President, Mr Samuel Agbeluyi, said that the Institute, the foremost professional taxation body in Nigeria, had been at the forefront of driving excellence, ethical and professional standards in the tax profession for over 43 years.

Agbeluyi urged members to be well acquainted with the tax and fiscal policy reforms being proposed through the Economic Stabilisation Bill presented by the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

“The Bill is currently awaiting concurrent approval from the Senate, having been passed by the House of Representatives.
“Amongst other things, it recommends the introduction of tax agents who will serve as intermediaries between tax payers and revenue authorities.

“This legislative effort is certainly commendable; however, as tax professionals, we have a critical role to play.

“The Institute is committed to ensuring that taxation remains a specialised and regulated profession, ensuring that only individuals with the required expertise and certification are allowed to practice,” he said.

He said that the CITN had reviewed the bills and made submissions on areas where specific provisions may benefit from further refinement to enhance tax administration and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

“We believe that if and when our recommendations are taken into consideration, the Nigeria tax system will be better for it.

“The CITN remains unwavering in its commitment to continually providing technical support and advice to the government as we progress in these reforms,” he said.
He said that the Institute took seriously the issue of continuous learning.

“Apart from the annual Mandatory Professional Training Programme (MPTP), the Institute, including the CITN Tax Academy, organises various trainings, conferences, workshops, seminars and specialised training programmes.

“Additionally, to ensure that members stay up-to-date about the proposed changes and understand their potential impact on the taxation landscape, the Institute has carried out series of high-level webinars to deepen discussions on the tax reforms among members and the general public,” he said.

He urged the new inductees to project the institute positively through ethical conduct, and by striving for excellence at all times in your service to employers, clients and stakeholders.

Dr Titilayo Fowokan, the Chairman, Membership and Professional Conduct Committee, said that taxation was imperative to national development.

According to Fowokan, as tax professionals, members of the CITN play a crucial role in ensuring compliance, promoting fiscal responsibility, and contributing to the economic growth of our country.

“The knowledge and skills you have acquired will serve as invaluable tools in addressing the challenges within Nigeria’s tax system and shaping the future of taxation,” she said.

She urged the new members to take full advantage of available opportunities in CITN for continuous learning, networking, and active participation in its programmes and activities.

“Your success as tax professionals will be determined by your dedication to integrity, lifelong learning, and commitment to best practices.

“As you step into the CITN family, you should imbibe and live the CITN values–Service, Teamwork, Excellence and Professionalism (STEP). Make sure you extend your network and add to your contacts as this is the soul of success in professional practice,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 1,461 new CITN members were inducted at the ceremony.

Nine of the inductees were awarded for excelling in the October 2024 professional examination, and Oluwadamilola Olaiya was named as the overall best student. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Stakeholder synergy essential to winning anti-corruption war, says OAuGF

Stakeholder synergy essential to winning anti-corruption war, says OAuGF

292 total views today

By Lucy Ogalue

The Auditor-General for the Federation, Mr Shaakaa Chira, on Wednesday, said that strategic collaboration among stakeholders was critical to enhancing accountability and winning the war against corruption in Nigeria.

Chira said this at a One-day Strategic Stakeholders’ Engagement Workshop by the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation (OAuGF) on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that the engagement was aimed at reinforcing institutional partnerships, enhancing operational transparency, and ensuring that audit outcomes lead to tangible reforms.

“Supreme Audit Institutions do not operate in a vacuum. We work with a broad spectrum of stakeholders to advance the cause of accountability.

“This event marks another important chapter in the reforms trajectory of the Office. As the foremost anti-corruption institution in Nigeria, the OAuGF can only succeed with the support of its stakeholders,” he said.

He said that understanding stakeholder needs and fostering consistent communication would position the OAuGF as a model institution in public sector audit and reform.

He recalled the inauguration of the OAuGF Stakeholder Engagement Strategy 2025–2028, developed with support from the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) Development Initiative (IDI).

According to him, the strategy identifies 12 critical groups whose roles are pivotal to the success of the Office.

“These include the National Assembly, the Executive, Judiciary, MDAs, civil society organisations, professional bodies, development partners, and the general public.

“The engagement is designed to capture stakeholders’ expectations and perceptions, which will help reshape institutional thinking and inform future actions.

“The views and feedback from this session will guide us in refining our processes and building a model Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) for others to emulate,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr George Phiri, Senior Manager at the INTOSAI Development Initiative, described stakeholder engagement as a strategic imperative, not a mere communications exercise.

“The effectiveness of an SAI is not only about the quality of its reports but also how well it engages with actors in the accountability circle,” Phiri said.

He expressed confidence that the strategy would enhance collaboration with civil society, media, and oversight bodies to improve public financial management.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, commended the OAuGF’s efforts and pledged continued collaboration.

Edun was represented by his Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Mr Raymond Omachi.

“Our shared responsibility compels us to strengthen institutional alignment for better governance.

“The Auditor-General’s work provides a compass for informed fiscal decisions,” the minister said.

The Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Ogunjimi, pledged commitment in working with the Office and other public sector institutions to build a more responsive, efficient, and accountable public financial management system.

“Going forward, we must institutionalise mechanisms for regular stakeholder dialogue, ensure timely publication of audit reports, and develop platforms for monitoring the implementation of audit recommendations.

“We must continually invest in the training of our auditors and accountants to enhance their ability to engage meaningfully with stakeholders and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalim.

“Let us reaffirm our collective resolve to strengthen public sector auditing through proactive stakeholder engagement.

” Together, we can ensure that public resources are used effectively, and that the goals of national development are achieved to deliver renewed hope for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Ogunjimi said.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), commended the AuGF for championing stakeholder cooperation.

The ICPC, represented by the Deputy Director and Head of Internal Audit, Mr Ambrose Songo, urged the OAuGF to do more in the fight against corruption in the country.

“We can not win the anti-corruption war alone. The synergy we build here today is the backbone of sustainable integrity in public finance,” he said.

Dr Rabiu Olowo, Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council (FRC), lauded the OAuGF for pushing transparency and financial reporting compliance among MDAs.

Olowo stressed the need for continued collaboration with the Auditor-General’s office to strengthen international public sector accounting standards.

The workshop brought together top officials from various oversight institutions, civil society groups, and development partners, who all expressed their support for the reform agenda of the OAuGF. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

3 Unicorns FC players set for trials at Nottingham Forest

3 Unicorns FC players set for trials at Nottingham Forest

324 total views today

By Victor Okoye

Three Nigerian players from Unicorns Football Club of Ilorin are set for trials at English Premier League (EPL) club, Nottingham Forest in Nottingham, UK.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nottingham Forest currently sit fourth on the EPL table with 60 points, and are one of the clubs in pole position out of the five clubs slugging it out for the Champions League spots.

The Three Nigerians namely; left winger Olamide Olasehinde, central defender Sulyman Quadri, and midfielder Sanni Adebayo have arrived in the UK for a two-week trial with the club.

Unicorns FC CEO, Victor Awoniyi expressed his excitement about the trials and told NAN that his ultimate goal is to utilise the opportunity to showcase the country’s abundant football talents.

The trio’s trial is part of a larger trend, with Unicorns FC having successfully sent no fewer than nine other players abroad in the last one year.

Secretary of the team, Suleiman Atunrase accompanied the players during their stay in the UK, allowing them to focus on the game.

This opportunity comes as English football continues to attract top talents worldwide.

Nottingham Forest striker, Taiwo Awoniyi who expressed delight at the opportunity, noted that representing Nigeria in major international tournaments, such as the U-15 and U-17 World Cup, was a pivotal moment in his career.

He however, noted that many young talents in Nigeria are not as fortunate as he was, hence the need to create a platform where these talents can showcase their skills.

“With Nigeria’s vast pool of talented individuals, making it to the national team is a remarkable achievement.

“By creating opportunities for these young talents, we are not only giving them a chance to showcase their skills but also making their dreams a reality,” Awoniyi said.

He further explained that providing platforms for young talents to develop and grow is essential in nurturing the next generation of football stars.

“It’s a privilege to be part of initiatives that help young players achieve their goals and pursue their passions.

“I can assure you that arrangements are also in top gear to send more players across Europe for a chance to achieve their dreams,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

40 coaches complete ITF National Level 1 coaching course

40 coaches complete ITF National Level 1 coaching course

217 total views today

By Victor Okoye

No fewer than 40 coaches have completed a week-long ITF National Level 1 Tennis Coaching Course organised by the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the participants drawn from the six geopolitical zones in the country, were presented with their certificates at a closing ceremony on Wednesday.

The coaching course which began on April 14, ended on Wednesday at the National Tennis Centre, Package B, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

In a message from the Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko and delivered by Olumide Bamiduro, Director of Federations and Elite Athletes Department, NSC, he reiterated the Commission’s continued support to NTF and other Federations.

“I want these new set of coaches to be technically alert to the knowledge been impacted on them towards the growth and development of tennis in the country.

“The athletes are the bedrock of sports development, so if we have coaches at nooks and crannies of the country, you will see the rapid growth of the game of tennis in Nigeria.

“They should put more effort now as they aspire to reach Level Three, which is the highest coaching standard in tennis,” Dikko said.

Earlier, Rotimi Akinloye, NTF Technical Director and Course instructor, highlighted the significance of the 10-day training programme for tennis coaches.

He explained that the training provides hope for the future of tennis in Nigeria, as young coaches learn modern teaching methodologies and technical knowledge to effectively guide players.

“Coaches play a crucial role in shaping the careers of tennis players, and their words can either inspire or discourage players.

“Thus, the training programme focused on equipping our coaches with global best practices and modern teaching techniques to enhance player development.

“It was also quite encouraging to see that the participants are young and knowledgeable about the game, indicating a promising future for Nigerian tennis,” he said.

Participants at the coaching course

NTF Secretary, Shammah Makpa, said that the importance of the training programme on Nigeria Tennis cannot be overemphasised.

Makpa said that it aimed to elevate the coaching standards in Nigeria, enabling coaches to provide better guidance and support to players.

“By equipping coaches with modern teaching methodologies, the programme can contribute to the development of skilled and competitive tennis players in Nigeria.

“It will also go a long way to help promote the growth of tennis at the grassroots, potentially leading to increased participation and success in local and international competitions,” he said.

He said that the Federation under the leadership of Ifedayo Akindoju as President, will continue to work towards taking the country to greater heights in the world of tennis through developmental programmes.

Chukwunonso Nwabueze, a participant in coaching training programme, shared his positive experience.

He highlighted the programme’s enriching content, which he noted covered essential aspects of tennis coaching.

“Participants learned about the basics of tennis coaching, including training methods for beginners and intermediate players.

“The programme covered specific skill areas such as ball feeding, approach shots, serve and volley, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of tennis techniques,” he said.

Nwabueze who is also the PRO of Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association, explained that he chose to participate in the training for capacity building and development, to further enhance his skills and knowledge of the game.

Rebecca Ekpeyong, a participant from Port Harcourt, said that the training demonstrates a commitment to professional development, allowing participants to stay up-to-date with best practices in tennis coaching.

“The programme equipped participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively coach tennis players.

“By learning modern coaching techniques, participants can contribute to the development of skilled and competitive tennis players in Nigeria,” she said.

Also speaking, Bolaji Bankole from Lagos, commended the NTF for organising the course with a promise to put into use knowledge garnered from the training.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Inefficiency, poor coordination affecting Nigeria’s water policies—-Stakeholders

Inefficiency, poor coordination affecting Nigeria’s water policies—-Stakeholders

314 total views today

By Suleiman Shehu

Stakeholders have identified inefficiency, poor coordination and monitoring as well as gender inequality as some of the factors affecting various water policies in Nigeria.

They stated this at a Stakeholders Validation Workshop and Capacity Needs Assessment on Integrating Gender in Nigeria’s Water Sector Policies and Governance on Tuesday in Ibadan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI).

The workshop was attended by researchers, Non-Governmental Organisation, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), government officials from Oyo State Women Affairs Ministry, and Ministry of Environment among others.

Ms Sarah Appiah, a Research Officer with IWMI, said that the organisation discovered that various policies within water sector in Nigeria were outdated and need to be reviewed.

Appiah said that the review must integrate gender in water policies in Nigeria and address other socio-economic issues affecting the non-mainstreaming of gender equality in policy formulation.

She said that policies within water sector in Nigeria must have strategic means of addressing some of the challenges to ensure accessibility and availability of water for all and sundry in Nigeria.

Appiah called on governments at various levels in Nigeria to address the noticeable gaps in various water policies in Nigeria and ensure adequate implementation, monitoring and funding.

” They must ensure that their policy design, implementation and monitoring take into consideration some of those challenges and ensure gender commitment at the national level is what is being implemented at the sectoral level.

“If we aim to achieve gender equality then sectoral policies must align with national gender policies to ensure that national commitment towards gender are actually inculcated into sectoral policies within the water sector,” she said.

In her remarks, Dr Adepeju Badmus, an Agricultural Economist at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Ibadan, said that Nigerians, especially women, were facing huge challenges with respect to access to water.

Badmus said that women in Nigeria need water especially during their menstrual period and child bearing and it was a challenge when potable water was not easily accessible and available.

According to her, water is essential and critical in the life of both men and women, but women suffer more when it’s not accessible and availabile.

She underscored the need for government to mobilise resources to tackle the challenges.

Also, Mr Adegoke Ayodele, a Director at the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (Oyo RUWASSA) said access to potable water was still a challenge in the state and government would continue to do its best to address the challenges.

In her comment, Mrs Shontonwa Roagess, Director Quality Control, Oyo State Water Corporation, said policies of government especially on water must be effectively implemented and women mobilised in its implementation.

Roagess said that making potable water available in the state still remained a challenge, “but the the corporation intends to do more in making water available to all.”

Highlight of the programme was an overview of policy innovation initiative and summary of flagship report policy coherence given by Dr Charity Osei-Amponsah of IWMI. (NAN)(www. nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Critical thinking key to nation building— Don

Critical thinking key to nation building— Don

223 total views today

By Suleiman Shehu

Nigerians have been advised to engage in critical thinking and responsible decision making in order to fast-track the development of the nation.

Prof. Muritala Kareem, a lecturer at the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan, gave the advise on Monday in Ibadan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kareem spoke at a quarterly lecture organised by the Criterion Association of Muslim Women in Business and Professions, Oyo District.

The lecture is titled “Islamic Perspectives on Positive Thinking and Capacity Building: Critical Thinking and Self Appraisal Skills for Success in Life and Hereafter”.

According to Kareem, many Nigerians now regret their actions due to some critical decisions taken impatiently.

The don, who’s the event’s guest lecturer, said that patience, positive thinking, and contentment with prayer were vital for peaceful coexistence in society.

“If you think critically but positively about other human beings, and are content with what God has given you, you will not hurt your fellow human beings, and there will not be any chaos in society.

“A lot of Nigerians are facing challenges in their daily activities because they are not patient; think critically before taking decisions and don’t have a negative mindset about others,” he said.

He said that patience, contentment, prayer and having a positive mindset about others would resolve many of the challenges confronting individuals in Nigeria.

“Appraising yourself and seeking knowledge will give you the opportunity to correct your wrongdoings and be closer to God,” he said.

He further called on Nigerians to always live with the fear of God and shun internet fraud and cheating others.

He noted that everyone would surely reap what he or she had sown, either positively or negatively.

The event’s host, Alhaja Anifat Olubode, called on Muslims to always be positive-minded, satisfied with what they have and grateful to God.

Olubode further urged them to refrain from imitating people who could influence them badly and continue to be prayerful to overcome their challenges.

Earlier, the Ameerah of the Association, Prof. Morufat Balogun, said the lecture was set to address issues of inferiority complex, medical health challenges and other negativities in society.

Balogun said the lecture aimed to sensitise Nigerians on the importance of contentment.

According to her, everyone has at least one blessing from God that can be improved.

She said Islam prescribed the handling of all circumstances with prayer.

The association’s Chairperson of Dawah Committee, Alhaja Sakirat Ibrahim, called on Muslims to trust in God and believe that only He could help them overcome their challenges.

Ibrahim urged them to focus on things beneficial to humanity in general to earn their reward on earth and the day of judgment. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Moses Solanke

DEPOWA President charges women on physical exercise

DEPOWA President charges women on physical exercise

240 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, has charged wives of military personnel to remain active and healthy through physical exercise and regular health checks.

Musa made the call at the Fitness Health Walk organised by the Naval Officer’s Wives Association (NOWA), on Saturday in Abuja.

She was represented by the Coordinator, Defence Space Administration Officers Wives Association (DSAOWA), Mrs Rukayat Oluwatoyin.

According to her, small actions, like taking a walk, could have a profound impact on lives as a move toward better mental clarity, stronger hearts, and healthier futures.

“It is not just about the miles, it is about the mindset. It is about making a choice to prioritize our well-being and to continue taking those steps, no matter how small, every single day.

“The momentum we have built today can carry us forward to even greater health achievements. Whether it is continuing to walk, choosing healthier meals, staying active with loved ones, or simply taking time to care for ourselves – every action counts.

“Stay active, stay healthy, and let us keep walking toward a brighter, stronger future,” she said.

The National Vice President of NOWA, Mrs Zainab Akpan, said that walking was one of the simplest yet most powerful forms of physical activity.

According to Akpan, it improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, supports joint health, reduces stress, and boosts mood.

She said that studies had shown that just 30 minutes of brisk walk a day can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type two diabetes, and certain cancers.

Akpan said the walk was not just about physical fitness, but about holistic well-being.

“Let us walk together-not just for ourselves, but for the message we send, but that health is a priority.

“Regular walking supports mental health, improves sleep, and helps manage anxiety and depression.

“Today, we are walking for our health-but also to raise awareness, build community, and promote a culture where movement is part of everyday life,” she said.

Akpan urged the women to always note that a fitness health walk was one of the best ways to stay active without needing special equipment or a gym membership.

A health expert, Dr Uduak Aboh said that physical exercises like walking could help reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, among others.

She also urged women to maintain occupational, emotional and physical wellness through regular checks and exercises. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Edith Bolokor and Yakubu Uba

FG backs Chinese language learning initiative

FG backs Chinese language learning initiative

331 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the learning of the Chinese language across the country.

Mrs Larai Ahmed, Director of Education Support Services at the Federal Ministry of Education, stated this during the International Chinese Language Day celebration on Friday in Abuja.

She noted that learning Chinese would deepen collaboration in trade, education, and cultural exchange, reflecting its growing global influence.

Ahmed emphasised that language is a powerful tool for communication and mutual understanding among nations.

She said the government recognises that learning Chinese provides access to China’s rich culture and helps strengthen diplomatic ties.

“With around 1.39 billion native speakers, Chinese is the most spoken language globally,” she pointed out.

She added that proficiency in Chinese opens new economic opportunities, especially in trade and investment.

Ahmed said the government’s initiative supports Nigeria’s goals to strengthen partnerships with China across multiple sectors.

She revealed that Nigeria had already made progress, including establishing the China Cultural Centre in Abuja.

“This centre, along with others nationwide, offers essential resources for Nigerians interested in learning Chinese,” she said.

She also noted the importance of the Bilateral Educational Agreement signed with China.

According to her, the agreement has enabled many Nigerian scholars to study Chinese language and culture.

“The Ministry plans to introduce Chinese programmes in selected schools and universities nationwide,” Ahmed added.

She said the initiative would enrich students’ experiences and prepare them for a globalised world.

Ahmed expressed gratitude to Chinese partners for their continued support and collaboration.

Mr Liu Zhanping, Deputy Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, said Chinese Language Day is a global celebration for Chinese language enthusiasts, aiming at promoting Chinese language and cultural exchange.

“As one of the world’s oldest yet most dynamic languages, Chinese embodies profound cultural wisdom.

“Each Chinese character resembles a unique painting, its strokes tracing the historical legacy and spiritual essence of the Chinese civilization over millennia,” he said.

Liu noted that the China Cultural Centre has been teaching Chinese since its founding in 2013.

He noted that many residents in Abuja take advantage of learning opportunities at the centre.

Liu praised Nigeria’s linguistic richness, highlighting Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba as important global languages.

He encouraged investment in language preservation and bilingual education to support linguistic diversity.

Liu also reaffirmed commitment to advancing Chinese education and cultural exchange initiatives in Nigeria.

“We are willing to work together with the Nigerian side to take practical measures to promote mutual learning between civilizations, deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and write a new chapter in China-Nigeria friendship,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu / Kamal Tayo Oropo

Chinese envoy says U.S. tariffs may trigger global recession

Chinese envoy says U.S. tariffs may trigger global recession

269 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has said that the current U.S. tariff policy could trigger a severe global economic downturn, which could also in turn hurt the U.S. economy.

He gave the warning at a news conference on Friday in Abuja, cautioning that the U.S.’ aggressive trade tactics, which put maximum pressure on its trading partners, could ultimately backfire.

According to him, the U.S. is essentially working against itself because the ongoing tariff battle may harm the interests of the U.S., as well as its allies.

Citing insights from some U.S. intellectuals, Yu pointed out that many of the challenges facing the U.S. were the result of its internal conflicts.

Yu stressed the importance of focusing on addressing domestic issues rather than attributing blame to external entities.

He decried the impact of the U.S.’ isolationist approach and zero-sum games on the global stage, and its potentially severe consequences.

“By disregarding international cooperation and escalating the trade conflict, the U.S. runs the risk of fueling inflation.

“This will undermine its industrial sector, instigate market upheaval, thereby heightening the possibility of an impending economic recession,” he said.

He cited economic indicators in the U.S., such as a recent CBS survey showing significant opposition to tariffs among American voters and a notable spike in inflation rates, particularly food items.

Yu noted that Goldman Sachs’ revised projections of an increased likelihood of a U.S. recession further underscored the gravity of the situation.

He added that global institutions like the International Monetary Fund had also issued warnings that U.S. tariffs could lead to a substantial reduction in global economic growth.

This, he said, would negatively impact trade volumes and disproportionately affect developing nations, particularly African countries.

The ambassador also critisised the U.S. for targeting African nations under what he described as the false premise that trade surpluses were tantamount to unfair practices.

He noted that such actions would culminate in adverse consequences, including currency devaluation and market instability across the African continent.

Yu said that the potential consequences of such tariffs on African economies could impede their growth trajectories.

He added that these would pose challenges to ongoing industrialisation and poverty alleviation efforts, ultimately jeopardising the progress of the continent.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Minister tasks engineers on advancing policies to foster thriving sector

Minister tasks engineers on advancing policies to foster thriving sector

267 total views today

By Angela Atabo

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, has charged construction and civil engineers to advance policies that promote a thriving construction sector in Nigeria.

Dingyadi made this call at the inauguration of the Construction and Civil Engineering Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (CCESSA) ultra-modern national secretariat building on Thursday in Kuje,Abuja.

He also urged the industry to prioritise sustainable building practices, invest in capacity development, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and safety.

He said, “As we celebrate this significant milestone, let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the growth and progress of the construction industry ,a sector that serves as the bedrock of national development.

“The infrastructure we build today lays the foundation for tomorrow’s prosperity, shaping the future of our cities, industries, communities and economy.

” I wish to reiterate the importance the government attaches to its relationship with its social partners ,the labour unions.

“There is no gainsaying to the fact that you are a critical stakeholder in our quest and commitment to maintaining a healthy and sound industrial relations climate in Nigeria.”

Dingyadi praised the association’s commitment to quality structures and preventing building collapses adding that engineering profession had made significant progress in minimising such incidents.

The President of the Trade Union Congress(TUC),Festus Osifo,said there was the need to correct the impression that the construction engineers were responsible for building collapse.

Osifo said no building collapse had been linked to any registered engineer or construction company.

He added, “So, the problem is that we have building collapses because the people that are putting those structures in place hire quacks people without certification.

“In CCESSA, we have people that are authority.

“We have people that are experienced and are registered civil engineers they understand what it takes to build a house, roads and bridges.”

Osifo condemned the casualisation of some construction workers to reduce cost describing it as a national tragedy.

He said this cut across across all the various affiliates and the unions were working to correct it.

Also speaking the National President of CCESSA,Ayodeji Adeyemo,said the inauguration of the CCESSA secretariat marked a new beginning and a beacon for construction and civil engineering excellence in Nigeria.

Adeyemo said the new CCESSA secretariat would serve as a aub for knowledge sharing, professional growth, and networking among members.

He called for unity and innovation in achieving excellence in the construction sector.

Adeyemo “Today, we celebrate not only the physical structure that will serve as our headquarters but also the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and excellence that defines our organisation.

“As we gather here, we embody the unity and solidarity that have always characterised our great nation, Nigeria.

“This secretariat represents a hub for knowledge sharing, professional growth, and networking among our members.

“I have no doubt that it will become a beacon for construction and civil engineering excellence in Nigeria, illuminating the path to progress and development. ”

He added that the two books ‘Occupational Health and Safety with Guidelines in Excelling in Local and International Examinations’ and ‘Occupational Health and Safety Simplified_were also launched.

He said the books would help to share knowledge, best practices, and researches in the construction and civil engineering fields.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

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