NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
African Volleyball Championship: CGC assures participating teams of conducive environment
Sports

African Volleyball Championship: CGC assures participating teams of conducive environment

307 total views today

By Aderonke Ojo/Georgina Adegbie

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi has assured all participating teams of a conducive environment at the African Women’s Volleyball Club Championship in Abuja.

Adeniyi stated this during the technical meeting on Wednesday in Abuja.

In his welcome address, he recognised the challenges faced by all participants and officials from across Africa , who had endured long flights to arrive in Abuja.

“It is our pleasure to welcome the greatest assembly of volleyball in Africa to Abuja. “We are indeed very happy to see you.

“Nigeria would do its best to make your stay enjoyable, highlighting the country’s warm and friendly nature of Nigerians,” he said.

He also  highlighted the complexity of volleyball, noting that while only 12 players and a few officials are visible on the court, a long value chain of umpires, referees, scorers, statisticians, and others work behind the scenes.

“ As a host country, this is Nigeria’s first time playing this role, the importance of teamwork and collaboration is what is making the tournament a success.

“The competition is designed to showcase the best of African volleyball talent, with teams competing for the top prize,” he said.

Adeniyi expressed his gratitude for the cooperation and support received from the federation, control committee, and the president of Nigeria volleyball federation, Musa Nimrod .

On his part, Musa Nimrod, President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation,  welcomed  all participating clubs to Nigeria.

He expressed his gratitude to the teams for choosing Nigeria as their host country, a first-time privilege for the nation.

Nimrod assured the participants that Abuja is a peaceful and secure city with excellent healthcare services available.

“You are all welcome, and I encourage you to enjoy your stay in Abuja,” he said.

Nimrod emphasised the spirit of unity and camaraderie among the participating teams, saying, “We are all brothers and sisters here.

“ I wish all the teams the best of luck during their stay in Abuja, Africa is one, enjoy yourself and hospitality that defines the African Women’s Club Volleyball Championship.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that  the event which started on Tuesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, is expected to end on April 14.

NAN also  reports that out of the  24 expected participating teams, only 16 teams  were on ground  at the technical meeting.

They include the Nigeria Customs Service ( NCS), Mayo Kani Evolution (MKE) of Cameroon,Armee Patriotique Rwandaise Volleyball Club (APR) of Rwanda, Club Femini De Carthage (CFC) of Tunisia.

Zamalek Sporting Club ( ZMK) of Egpyt, Kenya Prisons Volleyball Club (PRI) of Kenya, Chief of Naval staff( CNS), Spiking Stars Volleyball (SSV) of Botswana.

Al Ahly Sporting club ( AHL) of Egpyt, Kenya Commercial Bank Volleyball Club (KCB) of Kenya,VolleyballClub La LOI ( VLL) of Democratic Republic of Congo ,Sococim(SOC) of Senegal .

Others are Litto Team Volleyball (LTV) of Cameroon ,Kenya Pipeline Company Volleyball Club (KPC) of Kenya, Police Volleyball Club (PVC) of Rwanda and Club Ominisports Descartes of Cote d’Ivoire (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Joseph Edeh

Stakeholders want rural women’s voices in decision-making
Gender , General News

Stakeholders want rural women’s voices in decision-making

756 total views today

By Justina Auta

As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, stakeholders in Nigeria have emphasised the need to amplify the voices of rural women in decision-making spaces.

The call was made at the 2025 IWD celebration organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, in collaboration with the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that civil society organisations, rural women, and concerned Nigerians gathered to address the challenges faced by rural women and advocated for their inclusion in governance and policy formulation.

The event, themed “Accelerate Action: Amplifying the Voices of Rural Women,” highlighted the crucial role rural women play in national development and the importance of their participation in governance.

Mrs Bassey Ita-Ikpang, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, stressed the importance of empowering rural women to ensure their voices were heard in decision-making processes.

She noted that if things improved in rural areas, the entire nation would benefit, urging support for rural women to assert their rights.

“Rural women are the backbone of our communities, and their voices must be heard.

“We must create opportunities for them to participate in governance and ensure their concerns are addressed,” she said.

Ikpang added that the media had a key role in spotlighting the contributions and struggles of rural women.

Mr Luka Nizasaan III, Etsu of Kwali, in his keynote address, reiterated the vital role rural women play in sustaining families, local economies, and national food production.

“In spite of their immense contributions, they often remain unheard, unseen, and underserved.

“To truly honour rural women, we must move beyond recognition and take action.

“Their voices must be amplified in decision-making spaces, policy dialogues, and economic opportunities,” he said.

Nizasaan emphasised that education and digital empowerment are crucial to unlocking opportunities for rural women.

Ms Grace Ike, the Chief host and Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abuja Council, called for solidarity among women to drive change.

She encouraged all to continue working together in unity, raising their voices as agents of change.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that, as part of efforts to support rural women, two beneficiaries were presented with N50,000 each in cash support.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

350 golfers for 2025 IBB Lady Captain’s Cup
Sports

350 golfers for 2025 IBB Lady Captain’s Cup

394 total views today

By Victor Okoye

No fewer than 350 golfers are set to slug it out for honours in the IBB International Golf and Country Club Lady Captain’s Cup 2025 scheduled to hold from April 2 to 6 in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) the Lady Captain’s Cup is a prestigious tournament that brings together high networth individuals, business leaders, golf enthusiasts, and community supporters.

The participants are expected to come together for a week of competition, networking and celebration of the achievements of the Ladies Golf Section under the leadership of the Lady Captain, Julie Donli.

Donli told newsmen that the event offers an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate golfers, corporate and individual sponsors of the Ladies Golf Section and engage diverse audiences.

“It has been an incredible journey serving as the Lady Captain of the IBB International Golf
and Country Club with our Theme for the Year “Ladies Supporting Ladies”

“I have enjoyed the honour of leading an exceptional group of women who are committed to the advancement of golf and the well-being of our community.

“l am filed with gratitude for the incredible journey we have shared. Over the past year, we
have accomplished so much together.

“We have hosted remarkable tournaments, expanding our membership, giving back to the community, developing infrastructure, and strengthening the legacy of the ladies Golf Section (LGS),” she said.

She noted that under her leadership, activities at the club have been vibrant and impactful with key highlights.

“Some of our highlights include a significant increase in the weekly Thursday Kitty participation, growing from 28 to over 190 players.

“Hosting of major tournaments, including the 26th IBB Ladies Amateur Golf Open Championship and 25th lBB Ladies Close Championship.

“Expansion of the Junior Open Championship, leading to two young Nigerian golfers
earning World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR).

“Completion of a four-unit toilet and storage facility at the Driving Range, enhancing
club infrastructure.

“Sponsorship mobilisation, strengthening financial sustainability as well as national and international engagements,” she said.

She expressed her heartfelt appreciation to their sponsors, partners, and everyone who worked
tirelessly to make the remarkable successes recorded in this committee possible.

She said that their unwavering support had been instrumental to the success of the LGS 2024/2025 Committee.

She called on all participants to display the spirit of sportsmanship, adding that she would love to be remembered for being a lady captain who was committed to her job, dedicated, hardworking, and passionate.

“As we look forward to an exciting round of golf, championship Ball/Prize presentation for the next couple of days, I encourage all participants to embrace the spirit of fair play, friendship, and excellence.

“Together, we will continue to grow the game of golf and inspire even greater achievements as I look forward to a memorable event,” she said.

Omon Isemede, the Social Secretary, said that the LGS Committee had lined up a series of exciting events for the week-long tournament.

“The first day which is April 2 is the Caddies Versus Ladies Competition because we intend to make it all-inclusive event, so we can’t leave out our caddies, including our pros will be playing on that day.

“We will also be having a CPR training for the caddies and ladies on that day because they are usually the first responders in the event of an emergency in the golf course.

“Thursday, April 3 will be the turn of the veterans /super veterans (men/ladies) competition as well as sickle cell anaemia enlightenment and awareness session.

“Category 3 (men/ladies) 24.3 and above will be playing on Friday, while Saturday, April 5 will be the ceremonial tee off with quite a number of dignitaries expected to grace the occasion

“The ceremonial tee-off will be followed by category 2 players (men/ ladies) (handicap index (15.8-24.2) event.

“Sunday, April 6, which is the final day will see category 1 (0.5-15.7) players (men/ladies) as well as our sponsors slugging it out on the green with the dinner/ prize giving ceremony scheduled for 5:30 p.m.,” she said.

Isemede also revealed that the overall winner would be smiling home with a business class return ticket to London, courtesy of Air Peace.

NAN also reports that the LGS Committee also visited a motherless babies’ home in Gishiri shortly after a press conference held at the club on Thursday.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

NOUN to host UNESCO media, information literacy institute
Education

NOUN to host UNESCO media, information literacy institute

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By Emmanuel Afonne

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has been approved as the host for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO’s) Media and Information Literacy Institute.

Dr Hajo Sani, the Ambassador/Permanent Delegate of Nigeria to UNESCO, said this on Thursday, when she led a delegation on a courtesy call to Prof. Olufemi Peters, the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit was to discuss the newly established Category 2 Centre of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI).

Sani who highlighted the significance of the international institute, explained that it would benefit not only Nigeria but also the global community.

“I call for urgent attention to the next steps in the approval process, including the review of the draft agreement and the continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the timely establishment of the institute,” she said.

According to Sani, the collaboration between the Nigerian government, NOUN and UNESCO is crucial for advancing media literacy education, globally.

“I am very impressed with the commitment of the Nigerian government. It gives me a lot of courage and hope that we are making progress especially with the support of the Minister of Information, the Vice-Chancellor and the University Committee.

“So for us, it’s really a big achievement. I must also appreciate the Vice-Chancellor, for his leadership and the process of establishing this media institute as Category 2 under the auspices of UNESCO.

“I also want to say thank you to the University and the Department of Mass Media, for the efforts that led to the university’s recognition as a suitable co-host of the Media and Information Literacy Institute,” he said.

Responding, Peters expressed gratitude for the visit, while acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government, the Ministry of Information and UNESCO in supporting the establishment of the institute in the country.

He assured the UNESCO’S delegation of NOUN’s commitment to the project, as the institute had already been integrated into the university’s system and structure, for long-term sustainability.

He also assured that the institute would further be strengthened to achieve full autonomy.

“The university has already opened a separate account for the institute’s finances.
“We have a wide network of study centres with short, medium and long-term programmes which are aligned with UNESCO priorities.
“The National Open University of Nigeria is extremely lucky to have the presence of this institute here and we want to thank the President of the Federal Republic,” he said.
Peters commended the Minister of Information and National Orientation, and his predecessor, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, for their efforts at ensuring that the institute was established in Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
EMAF/JNC
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Global trade: Analysts call for competitive shipbuilding sector
Foreign

Global trade: Analysts call for competitive shipbuilding sector

353 total views today

By Fortune Abang

Analysts have underscored the need for strategic approach to boost sustainable growth in the shipbuilding sector without disrupting global trade.

The analysts gave the advice on Thursday during the 2025 global virtual sessions, which analysed challenges of the shipbuilding industry.

They spoke against the backdrop of implemented measures by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), on China’s shipbuilding and related industries to curb dominance in global maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors.

These implemented measures include imposing fees on Chinese-flagged ship operators, operators using Chinese-built ships and those ordering ships from Chinese shipyards with charges ranging up to 1.5 million dollars per vessel or voyage.

Such entails operators using U.S. built ships, would receive fee reductions of up to 1 million dollars per voyage among other things.

They also argued that the proposed measures of punitive tariffs, port fees on Chinese-built ships and shipping restrictions could disrupt global supply chains, raise logistics costs and ultimately harm the U.S. trade.

Zhou Mi, a senior research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said that policies that adversely affects maritime transportation would inevitably reverberate throughout the trade sector.

He noted that such policy could make American goods too expensive internationally, overwhelm major U.S. ports and force up global freight rates and inflation at home.

He explained that such fees could increase operating costs for logistics and supply chain, leading to higher prices for imported goods in the U.S. and diminishing the international competitiveness of its exported products.

“The levies, once implemented are certain to reshape global supply chain landscape; many firms may seek ships built by other countries, yet supply will be insufficient as shipbuilding cycle is very long.

“Alternatively, they may opt to bypass American ports, which will further weaken the scale and risk resistance capacity of the country’s supply chain,” he said.

He noted that manufacturing industry in the U.S. had been on downward trend, adding that a single policy on imposing massive fees on China-linked ships was unlikely to boost the U.S. shipbuilding industry.

He also said that the U.S. had no advantage on price, technology or efficiency, even if compared to Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia.

Joe Kramek, CEO of the World Shipping Council, described what the USTR had proposed as backward-looking, retrospective, multi-million dollar per port call fee that would not work.

“It will only serve to penalise U.S. consumers, businesses, particularly farmers, as well as raise prices and threaten jobs,” he said.

Meanwhile, spokesperson from China’s Commerce Ministry, He Yadong, said that the charging fees on Chinese ships entering U.S. ports would disrupt global supply chains and backfire on the U.S. economy and employment.

“If the U.S. insists on imposing port fees, it will drive up global shipping costs and disrupt the stability of global supply chains.

“Such measures will also increase domestic inflationary pressures on the U.S., weaken the global competitiveness of U.S. goods and harm U.S. consumers and businesses,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Nigeria’s economy achieving stability – Edun
Economy/Business

Nigeria’s economy achieving stability – Edun

346 total views today

By Nana Musa

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, says Nigeria’s economy has achieved relative stability over the past 18 to 20 months.

Edun said this during a Zoom dialogue meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

According to him, the economy narrowly avoided collapse, having survived on illegally borrowed central bank funds far beyond regulatory limits.

“Where we are now is that, in the last quarter of 2024, the economy grew at roughly 3.84 per cent, which is close to the annual target of 3.4 per cent.

” Looking at the metrics, inflation has started to slow down.

“It dropped by 1.3 percentage points between January and February, and food inflation is also declining.

“Additionally, the cost of petroleum and energy is down due to sectoral dynamics,” he said.

Edun noted that stabilising the exchange rate had positively impacted imported goods and services, such as healthcare and education.

He further revealed that the balance of trade was positive, with government revenues increasing by 20 per cent in 2024.

Edun said the economy was stabilising, the budget deficit was reducing, and debt servicing as a percentage of revenue had dropped.

“All economic indicators are moving in the right direction, and most importantly, the cost of living is gradually improving.

“With this progress, the government is now focusing on further stabilisation and creating an environment that encourages private sector investment.

“We are also leveraging technology to enhance revenue generation from government-owned enterprises,” Edun explained.

The minister stated that the tax reform bill was set to increase the top-end personal income tax rate from 18.6 per cent to 25 per cent, while also tightening government expenditure.

He said that economic growth would be driven by agriculture, housing and infrastructure.

On agriculture, he said government would continue to ensure good harvests through improved dry and wet season farming techniques.

According to him, on imroved housing, introduction of a 25-year low-interest mortgage with single or low double-digit interest rates to address the housing deficit.

“The Highways Management and Development Initiative (HMDI) would facilitate the concessioning of major highways to improve road infrastructure,” he said.

Edun said the government was transitioning from concessional and bilateral financing to cheaper sources of funding, including a domestic bond issue.

He also reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving pensioners’ legacy debt, revealing that over N700 billion in bonds had been issued for pension payments.

Acknowledging that Nigeria remains an oil-dependent economy, Edun stressed that the government was making efforts to, create a safe and investor-friendly environment for oil operations.

“Maximise revenue from fossil fuels while it remains viable, encourage public-private partnerships, joint ventures, and privatisation o boost investment.

“Now is the time for equity, revenue generation, and private sector participation, both domestically and internationally,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Kevin Okunzuwa

U.S. Ambassador urges Nigerians  to use  religion to foster peace
General News , Religious

U.S. Ambassador urges Nigerians  to use  religion to foster peace

325 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr. has called on Nigerians to use religion to foster peace and empower the less privileged in the society.

The envoy made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the breaking of fast (Iftar) and distribution of food to thousands of fasting Muslims and non Muslims at the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS).

He described Islam as a religion of peace which focuses on spirituality and helping the less privileged in the society.

Mills , who was the special guest of honour at the event, said his understanding of Islam since he served in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Lebanon has shown that the religion promotes peace and encourages charity to the poor.

He charged other religious organisations and well-to-do Nigerians to always reach out to the poor in the society.

“My view of Islam is the one I’ve had for so many years since I served in Saudi Arabia as the US ambassador, in Iraq, Lebanon that Islam is a religion of peace.

“It’s a religion that put emphasis on spirituality, relationship to God and the involvement of charity and helping the less fortunate.

“And this again reminds us of the values shared by many of the world’s religion, Christianity and Judaism,” he said.

U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr. distributing meals during Iftar (breaking of fast) at Al-Habibiyyah Mosque, Abuja

Former Governor of Plateau,  Sen. Simon Lalong in his remarks, said that when the poor are well fed and empowered, there will be less crime in the society.

“As a Christian, one of the best portions of the Bible was when Jesus Christ was sharing meals like this to the needy.

“Today, it’s a privilege to be part of those sharing meals and people are smiling.

“A lot of them when I came I was asking myself I hope there would be no stampede.

“I like the orderliness displayed and everybody got meal, very rich meal. Sharing the meals to them shows service to humanity by the Organisation (Al-Habibiyyah),” he said.

U S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr. with Sen. Simon Lalong at Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, Iftar (breaking of fast)

The national Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Mosque,  Sheik Fuad Adeyemi emphasised the need to use the Ramadan period to promote charity and world peace.

“We have to maintain world peace because that is what Islam stands for.

“We should imbibe the spirit of Ramadan because it is the month that fighting is completely prohibited,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by officials from the U.S. embassy in Nigeria, diplomats, traditional rulers and Islamic scholars. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

U19 Cricket team optimistic of World Cup ticket–Coach Gim
Sports

U19 Cricket team optimistic of World Cup ticket–Coach Gim

374 total views today

By Ijeoma Okigbo

Nigeria’s U19 Male Cricket team says it is hopeful of picking Africa’s sole ticket to the 2026 U19 International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s World Cup.

Daniel Gim, the head coach of the team, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday that the team was adequately prepared and ready to play the best of cricket at the Qualifiers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Lagos will host the U19 World Cup Africa Qualifiers with six nations participating from March 28 to April 6.

With one world cup ticket at stake, Gim stressed the team’s readiness for the challenge.

“The team has prepared well, all thanks to the NCF, for giving us the support and the kind of preparation we desire to have.

“The preparations started a long time ago. At the time, we had about 38 players and after rigorous training and practice, we had to trim the number to 24.

” Subsequently, we reduced the number to 17 who are in camp now and from that number, we will name our final 14-man squad.

“We have had a series of training in Benin, Abuja and now Lagos, where we are set to welcome other countries and begin our quest for a world cup opportunity,’’ Gim said.

Gim also added that the players are confident but will not underrate any team.

“ The players are ready and are very confident. Over the couple of weeks, we have managed to improve their game to a certain level that their confidence level is so high.

“They are ready for the task ahead and we will not underrate or overrate any team but will look to play the best version of cricket.

“Although, we will have the fans on our side. Also, we are familiar with the wicket and weather conditions which will be to our advantage, but we will not be complacent.

“We have a very good batting and bowling side and our fielding is very fantastic. We are a balanced team and we want to play a game from both sides, whether bowling or batting,’’ Gim added.

NAN reports that Nigeria will host Uganda, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, Namibia and Kenya as all teams jostle to pick Africa’s lone qualifying slot to the World Cup. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Insecurity: Experts seek incorporation of security education into school curriculum
Defence/Security

Insecurity: Experts seek incorporation of security education into school curriculum

291 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS), has advocated that security education and awareness be made mandatory at all levels of education in Nigeria.

This is contained in a communique issued at the end of the Maiden Annual Lecture of AANISS held recently in Abuja.

The annual lecture had as its theme “Mobilising Stakeholders to Curb Insecurity in Nigeria: A Practical Approach”

The communique signed by Mr Mike Ejiofor, President, AANISS, on Wednesday in Abuja, also urged government at all levels to continue to create sustainable employment opportunities for the teeming Nigerian youths.

Ejiofor said this would reduce the tendency of their involvement in crime.

He also recommended the adoption of ”whole of government, whole of society, whole of nation” concept and people-centric security architecture.

He further called for collaboration between Nigerian security agencies and neighbouring Francophone countries for enhanced intelligence gathering and security operations at the country’s borders.

”Local communities should be trained, empowered and engaged as part of first line of defence, while major stakeholders should be involved in policy formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.

”Security education and awareness should be made mandatory at all levels of education in Nigeria,” he added.

The communique also urged relevant authorities to create and maintain joint security and intelligence operation centres with complementary operational command structures.

”The centres are to organise joint patrols, surveillance and coordinated operations to tackle illegal arms smuggling, drug trafficking and cross border crimes.

”Security, intelligence and other related institutions should include in their recruitment processes people with ability to speak French language in view of Nigeria’s Francophone neighbours to facilitate easy communication and reduce border crimes,” Ejiofor said.

The communique further recommended that traditional value of communalism be revived through traditional institutions at community levels to prepare them as first-line of defence in security initiatives.

This, according to the communique, will enhance inclusiveness, trust, cooperation, proactive measures in crime prevention and serve as check on potential security challenges at grassroots level.

It urged relevant agencies to make available counter-terrorism instruments for information, education and use by all, including traditional rulers, adding it should also be incorporated in educational programs in schools.

Ejiofor urged state governors to have a buy-in for effective inclusion of local governments’ councils. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Customs waive import duty on pharmaceutical raw materials
Economy/Business

Customs waive import duty on pharmaceutical raw materials

331 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

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