NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Defence/Security

We’ve taken measures to rid Nasarawa of bandits, kidnappers- Sule

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa on Wednesday said that his administration has put measures to rid the state of bandit and kidnappers.

Sule stated this in an interview with newsmen shortly after a courtesy call on the Vice President Kashim Shettima, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said that the State Government with the support of the Federal Government established a Military Super Camp in the area that was prone to bandits and kidnappers.

“It took us a while to be able to stabilise the area. The road leading to the area where some of the bandits, kidnappers were actually settled down was very bad. We now constructed a major road in the area.

“The Federal Government also constructed a major road that comes all the way from Benue into Nasarawa State which most of the transporters from the Eastern part of the country are actually using at the moment.

“So, because of that we also established what you called Military Super Camp in the area. So there is presence of military in the area.

“So, all those kind of kidnappers, bandit and so on have all left, we don’t have any as far as those areas are concern.”

Sule stated that Nasarawa was always considered as one of the safest states to do agriculture and other things.

The governor said the state over the past three years, had been leading in so many areas of agriculture.

“Today I’m happy to tell you we are number one in Sesame farming in the whole federation nobody does more than that.

“We are number two in Yam production throughout the country. We are number two in cassava production throughout the country and we are number five in rice production.

“So, if people are not going to farms, we will not be achieving this kind of numbers. These are the realities on ground.

“These are things that you can go and find out on your own. So, as far as we are concerned there are no kidnapping in Nasarawa.

“With the oil drilling I don’t think any of you has ever heard about kidnapping and things like that taking place. I think that is where we are,” he said.

On why he visited the Vice-President, Sule said he came to brief him about the agricultural activities in Nasarawa.

“So, I came to visit him for two major issues, we have been doing a lot in the area of Agriculture which he has taken upon himself to ensure that things are going well.

“So, he has been monitoring that himself and from time to time we visit and discuss on the agriculture which is of great importance to him.

“I came also to discuss about the commissioning of the Lithium Factory that we are having on Friday.

“As you know that this Friday we are going to commission a 4,000 Metric Tonnes per day Lithium Processing Factory which he has always been interested in knowing the outcome of what is happening.

“We came to discuss that part of the preparations. In fact we are hoping Mr President himself will come to commission that factory on Friday.”(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Science & Tech

NGO launches initiative to curb environmental impact of tech ecosystem

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By Jessica Dogo

Aid for Rural Education Access Initiative (AREAi) has launched a multilayered initiative to mitigate the impact of Nigeria’s burgeoning technology ecosystem on the environment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that AREAi, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), launched the SCALE initiative on Tuesday in Abuja.

The initiative is funded by the Digital Access Programme (DAP) of the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The Project Manager, Gideon Olanrewaju, said the initiative would improve eco-consciousness and drive responsible digital behaviours in the use and maintenance of digital tools and internet devices.

Olanrewaju said the organisation would leverage its expertise and extensive capacity in digital transformation and sustainability to achieve the project’s objectives.

“The initiative will champion series of activities that range from evidence generation, knowledge management and mobilisation, incentivised capacity development, media-driven public awareness, and high-level policy advocacy activities.

“This move aims at aligning producers, consumers and stakeholders of the technology sector with eco-consciousness, ensuring a greener, more sustainable future for Nigeria’s digital landscape.

“This initiative, under the theme “Smart Climate Awareness, Learning and Empowerment (SCALE) for Net Zero” program will directly engage information and communications technology companies, digital start-ups, innovation hubs.

“Other key stakeholders in the tech ecosystem will be engaged to facilitate their understanding about technology’s high negative environmental cost, then mobilise them to collectively commit and act towards reducing their contributions to digital carbon footprint.”

He explained that the initiative would drive citizens’ engagement strategy on a large scale, by providing empowerment to key technology hubs in Abia, Rivers, Lagos, Kaduna and Adamawa states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.

The project manager added that the organisation would work in collaboration with research institutions, tech startups, government agencies and civil society organisations.

”To mobilise high level stakeholders engagement in fulfilment of the policy regulatory requirements of the initiative, we will be exploring key partnerships with National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency.

“Others are, E-waste Producer Responsibility Organisation Nigeria, National Information Technology Development Agency, the Department of Climate Change of the Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Council on Climate Change.

“The Inter-ministerial Committee on Climate Change and the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan Office”.

Head of the UK Government’s Digital Access Programme and Country Adviser, Idongesit Udoh said that the intervention was a novel effort to leverage evidence-based and citizens-led approaches to promote digital sustainability awareness and progressive use of technology.

Udoh said the progressive use of technology should be environmentally responsible, socially equitable, and economically viable.

“Hence, the UK Government is once again demonstrating timely support, not only for Nigeria’s inclusive economic development but also in building eco-friendliness within its technology ecosystem through energy-efficient technology business operations.

“Our DAP programme will continue to initiate significant partnerships with local organisations to drive the UK Government’s continued support for Nigeria and its digital sector, recognising the tech ecosystem’ role in net zero transition and sustainable development.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

Defence/Security

Terrorism: ECOWAS to raise $2.4bn to fund counter-terrorism standby force

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) says it is working to set up a counter terrorism force to tackle security threats within the sub-region.

The Commissioner Political Affairs, Peace and Security of ECOWAS, Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah, stated this at the opening of a three-day consultative meeting of Commandants of the three designated ECOWAS Training Centres of Excellence.

The three centres of excellence are the National Defence College, Nigeria, Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Ghana, and Ecole de Maintien de la Paix Alioune Blondin Beye, Mali.

The consultative engagement is a bi-annual event coordinated by the Directorate of Peacekeeping and Regional Security of ECOWAS.

It is to support training, capacity building, research and development of the ECOWAS Standby Force, and the general peace and security within the sub-region.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mali which is housing one of the training centres of excellence was absent at the meeting.

This may not be unconnected with the recent move by the country alongside Niger and Burkina Faso to exit the ECOWAS community.

Musah said that terrorism was cascading across the region and there was need to have counter terrorism forces to contain its spread.

“This is the decision, and in the coming weeks, ECOWAS has already with the Chief of Defence Staffs, developed operational modalities, the concept of operations and everything for us to aggregate.

“It will be something like an advance rapid reaction force of a battalion that will be able to confront terrorists’ bases.”

He explained that as part of the resolution of the authority of Heads of States, 2.4 billion dollars would be raised to fund the ECOWAS standby force to tackle the security challenges headlong.

“The Heads of States have decided that on the first year, we must raise about 2.4 billion dollars to support the operation of this force in order to face the terrorist.”

Musah said out of the amount, the Heads of States have directed member states contribute one billion dollars to commence the operation of the stand-by force.

He also explained that Ministers of Defence and Finance from the sub-region would be meeting to fashion out funding modalities for the force.

“This brings me to why this exercise is so critical today.

“If you look at our region, it is being ravage by terrorists. Today Burkina faso has overtaken Afghanistan as the most terrorised state on earth, and Africa has become home to terrorists organisations.

“Elsewhere in the world there are opportunistic terrorists attacks like we saw in some countries not too long ago.

“We are faced with the nightmare of having one of our member states being completely occupied by terrorist groups.

“If they set up a front base in one country then no country is safe, and we have already seen the impact of that on some of the coastal countries – Benin, Togo, Ghana and Cote d’voir – over the past few years.”

The ECOWAS commissioner, however, said Nigeria has been able to degrade the Boko Haram terrorists.

“In Nigeria, thanks to the efforts of the Nigerian Government, Boko haram have been degraded to the extent that they do not post a sustainable threat to the peace and security of Nigeria.”

Earlier, the Commandant National Defence College, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu while welcoming participants to the meeting, said West Africa was the only region that assigned training centres with special mandate.

He, therefore, urged the participants to take advantage of the opportunity to exchange useful ideas to enhance operations against terrorist groups in the region. (NAN)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

Business

Odu’a investment shareholders approve N428m dividend for 2023

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By Rukayat Adeyemi

Shareholders of Odu’a Investment Company Ltd.(OICL) on Thursday approved the total dividend of N428 million declared by the company for the year ended Dec. 31, 2023.

They gave the approval at the company’s 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Lagos.

They also approved other resolutions and the company’s financial statements for the financial year ended 2023.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Odu’a group, owned by the government of the Western States of Nigeria, is a strategic investment and asset management firm founded in 1976.

The company was established to hold and manage the industrial and commercial assets of companies.

It has substantial investments in real estate, energy, hospitality, information technology, printing and publishing, equipment leasing, food and beverages, among others.

The total dividend would be shared equally among the six states that have equal equities in the company.

In his address, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Group Chairman, Odu’a Investment, said that it was the 10th consecutive year that the company would be paying dividends to its shareholders.

On the company’s financials for the year under review, Ashiru stated that the firm recorded seven per cent growth in its operating revenue from N3.68 billion in 2022 to N3.95 billion in 2023.

Ashiru noted that in spite of the economic headwinds of 2023, the company was able to post an impressive performance, as its Profit Before Tax(PBT) grew by 62 per cent to N1.772 billion in 2023, from N1.092 billion recorded in 2022.

He expressed satisfaction with improved collaboration and synergy within the group and leveraging shared services, cross selling, joint marketing and astute business innovation.

He noted that Odu’a Investment was translating the timeless vision of the founding fathers of the company into reality by the implementation of the group’s five-year strategic plan.

Ashiru explained that the strategic plan aimed to create and revive businesses and assets to deliver continuous growth and value to shareholders and stakeholders.

According to him, notable events in the year under review included the commissioning of the Phase one of Westlink Iconic Villa, Alakia, Ibadan, comprising 67 residential units of three-bedroom apartments, four-bedroom and five-bedroom duplexes.

” It also involves the launching of the Odua Investment Foundation and its flagship Educational Intervention Project, tagged: ’’Digital Education for Innovation and Economic Development (DEFINED).

” Odu’a Investment also secured its first ever Credit Rating in 2023 with Agusto & Co awarding it ‘’A’’ Rating with a stable outlook attributed to its deft management and good operating cashflows.”

Mr Adewale Raji, Group Managing Director/CEO of Odu’a Investment, appreciated the shareholders for the opportunity given to him to serve the company for two successive terms, lasting 10 years.

Raji said with the support of the shareholders, a new corporate governance framework that depoliticised operations, appointments and management of the firm was enthroned.

He stated that the company in last 10 years witnessed repositioning that was driven by her SRC (Sweat, Revive & Create)- 2025 Strategy to be a lean non-operating investment holding company focused on eight sectors.

He listed the sectors as: real estate, hospitality, financial services, agriculture, energy/power, ICT/ digital, healthcare/pharmaceuticals and logistics/e-commerce.

“It is such focus on ‘’Sweating’’ that necessitated the consolidation of the entire group real estate portfolio under our Wemabod Ltd., subsidiary.

“This led to the massive redevelopment either through own resources or joint venture partnerships of our real estate portfolio to optimise yield and return.

“‘’Revive’’ is manifesting in our renovation and redevelopment of Premier Hotel at Ibadan with significant progress made in both the existing building and new developments on the site with phased re-opening starting in half year of 2025.

“ Create’’ reflects in the significant step up in our BITA Exploration and Production Ltd., marginal field (PPL 249) funding thrust to implement the Field Development Plan with our partner, Pioneer Global Energy Resources.

“The company expects that once these funding and regulatory requirements are met, it will be able to achieve ‘’First Oil within the first quarter of 2025.

“ All these translated to remarkable success in its financial performance, corporate governance, risk management, and asset optimisation across its chosen sectors,” he said.

Raji expressed confidence that the incoming group managing director of the company, Mr Abdulrahman Yinusa, would deliver on the ongoing redevelopment of the company’s hotels and the group’s new pipeline of premium residential and commercial projects.

He assured that the new managing director would also secure viable joint venture partnerships for the agriculture portfolio and achieve ‘’First Oil‘’, in the implementation of the field development plan of BITA marginal field.

According to him, Yinusa would facilitate the company’s mainstream participation in the turnaround of the power sector.

Raji expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu administration’s pursuit of a market-driven approach to resolving underlying problems of the economy would attract long-term investments into the country to fund infrastructure and social services.

He said that these include roads, rail, power, healthcare, and education, among others, that would translate into sustainable economic and human capital development.

Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Secretary to Oyo State Government, commended the board of OICL for piloting the affair of the organisation to an enviable height.

Adeyemo said, worthy of note was the consistency the organisation had maintained in remitting annual dividend for shareholders in the last 10 years.

Also, Mr Olatokunbo Joseph, Secretary to Ogun State Government, said, “I’m very proud to see OICL manifest as a big company.

” I feel everyone should give an applause to the directors for giving us a fair financial analysis.

“ I enjoin everyone to stay focused on what we are set to do,” Joseph said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Metro

Visa processing for 2024 Hajj reaches advanced stage- NAHCON

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it has reached an advanced stage in the processing of entry visa for the 2024 intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

The Executive Chairman, NAHCON, Malam Jalal Arabi, said this at the Maiden Stakeholders Summit on Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah Industry on Thursday in Abuja.

Arabi said that the commission had scheduled May 15, for the inaugural flight of the 2024 Hajj.

He said that the approved air carriers were ready to transport all Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia
from over 10 departures centres.

” We as a board of NAHCON and team will be meeting with the air carriers later today to fashion out the departure centres and of course our partners in the aviation sector will also join us.”

The NAHCON boss said that all pilgrims from states would visit Madinah for the maximum of four days before the commencement of Hajj rites.

” This is major change from the operations of Hajj in the last decade. All stakeholders are working to provide effective and efficient services to the guest of Allah (pilgrims).

” And this underscores the importance of this summit. The preparations for this year’s Hajj is characterised by different challenges but to God be the glory we are able to overcome the challenges.

” I can proudly say that close to 65,500 pilgrims of the States Pilgrims Boards, Agencies and Commissions and the Tour operators will be participating in this year’s Hajj,” he said.

He said that the commission under his watch was ready to partner, collaborate with stakeholders and work as a team for the successful conduct of the 2024 Hajj operation.

Arabi lauded Vice-President Kashim Shettima for his continued support for the commission.

He also expressed appreciation to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III for his continued guidance to the leadership of NAHCON.

Earlier, the Rector of the institute, Prof. Mohammed Maiturare, said the summit was intended to serve as a crucial platform for fostering cooperation and collaboration between NAHCON, states pilgrims broads, tour operators and all stakeholders in Hajj industry.

” Through open dialogue, knowledge sharing and a commitment to working together we can address challenges and potential destructions that might arise and ensure the successful execution of the 2024 Hajj,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two-day summit was organised by the Hajj Institute of Nigeria established by the NAHCON.(NAN)

Edited by Ali Baba-Inuwa

Environment

Climate Change: Don cautions against killing of wildlife species

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By Taiye Olayemi

Prof. Edem Eniang, Executive Director, Biodiversity Preservation Centre in Uyo, has expressed disappointment at continued engagement of some Nigerians in tree felling and wildlife killing for commercial purposes.

Eniang told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Tuesday that in spite of warnings, some Nigerians had continued in the acts, making the effects of climate change to be worse.

According to him, trees serve as physical barriers capable of reducing wind speed and redirecting its force.

” Thereby helping to prevent soil erosion, which can damage crops and destroy wildlife habitats.”

He added that trees could reduce the likelihood of damage to buildings and other structures by strong winds.

He said that wildlife species being killed were capable of attracting eco-tourism traffic to the nation and aid in generating foreign exchange earnings.

He advised Nigerians to refrain from the acts and rather engage in tree planting and general biodiversity conservation.

“In Nigeria, the challenge of endangered species conservation has become a matter of urgent concern requiring positive actions from governments at all levels and all individuals.

” We must all work together to address this situation for a better future, balanced ecosystem, and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in our country by 2050.

” We have disregarded, disrupted and altered the planetary boundaries within our spheres of influence, allowing our daily activities as humans to have a negative impact on the environment or ecosystems.

Red Capped Mangabey aka Cercocebus torquatus

“Acid rain is now a reality; our water is acidified, and if we do not take action, 2025 will bring even worse consequences with increased temperatures and more severe wind disasters.

“Currently, the only opportunity we have to view our wildlife species is presented by those sold at the bushmeat markets, whereas those are the same species that could have drawn eco-tourism traffic and bring in the much-needed foreign exchange.

“Unfortunately, they are, on daily basis, displayed at wildlife markets or at pepper soup joints, where they are being sold indiscriminately.

“We are cooking crocodiles, antelopes, gorillas, chimpanzees, dolphins, African manatees and more. This is unacceptable,” he said.

Eniang said that, to safeguard Nigeria’s endangered wildlife species, the Federal Government should consistently educate Nigerians about the dangers of killing them.

He said that due to reckless killing of some wildlife species, animals such as Forest elephants, Atlantic humpback dolphins, African manatees, red-capped mangabeys, colobine monkeys and pangolins were on the verge of extinction.

“ also species such as the Ukpam stingray, snakefish, two-headed snake (Calabar ground python), Angwantibo, Nigerian-Cameroonian chimpanzee, Cross River gorilla and the Slater’s monkey, declared in 2000 as the 15th most important monkey on the planet, are all on the brink of extinction.

“ Cheetahs, Giraffs and hunting dogs have disappeared from Nigeria.

“Since the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government, many Nigerians cannot afford the cost of PMS, diesel and kerosine; so, they have embraced firewood to cook.

“This development has increased the rate at which trees are brought down and converted to charcoal. Nigerians must desist from it,” he said.

Eniang urged Nigerians to make conscious efforts in the preservation of Nigeria’s fauna and flora endowments for wealth creation and environmental preservation. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Metro

Shettima returns to Nigeria, meets US Secretary, Campbelll

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday returned to Nigeria after representing President Bola Tinubu at the just concluded International Development Association (IDA21) Summit, held in Nairobi, Kenya.

This is contained in a statement issued by Mr Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice-President.

Nkwocha said on arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Shettima met behind closed doors with the United States Deputy Secretary, Kurt Campbell, and his team.

” Among issues discussed at the meeting were security, bilateral relations, shared visions, technological cooperations, economic and mutual partnership.

” Both countries pledged to work more on deepening their bilateral relationships and their connectivity. ”

Deputy Secretary Campbell has been in Nigeria where he was the co-chair of the sixth U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission (BNC) with Foreign Minister, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Culture & Tourism

Shettima urges political leaders to project Nigeria’s cultural diversity

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged political leaders to project the beauty of the nation’s cultural diversity.

Mr Stanley Nkwocha, spokesperson of the Vice-President, in a statement on Saturday, said Shettima made the call during conferment of the Chieftaincy title of Asiwaju of Ijebuland on Dr Sulaiman Adegunwa.

According to the statement, the ceremony held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

Shettima emphasised the importance of service to humanity and peaceful coexistence in the country.

He conveyed greetings from President Bola Tinubu, describing the new Asiwaju as “a worthy son of the soil, a leader committed to entrenching peaceful coexistence across the length and breadth of the nation.”

Shettima said: ” the event we are all gathered here to witness is not just one that celebrates the intertwining between leadership and culture but indeed the essence of humanity which is service.

“As beautiful as we all look in the various attires we are putting on, so is the beauty in our diversity, so is the beauty of our heritage, so is the beauty of our cultures which bellies in our age-long tradition.”

He called on Adegunwa to see his new role as a call to service and a reminder that, “what we owe this country is a sacrifice for love, tolerance and total dedication.”

Recounting Adegunwa’s inspiring story of success, Shettima noted that, “the story of Baba is successful yet very motivational, that for every man that strives to succeed there is no way the doors would not be open.

“On our part, we shall continue to partner with well-meaning Nigerians to ensure that for everyone that sacrifices and strives to succeed despite the challenges we face as a nation, we shall leave no stone unturned in giving them all the support.

“I wish Dr Adegunwa a most meritorious and legacy-filled Chieftaincy. May your era bring bountiful peace, love, and progress to this beautiful land. Thank you and God bless,” he added.

In his remarks, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, congratulated Dr Adegunwa, recounting his journey from a small photo studio to investments in banking, real estate, agriculture, and education.

“Today, Baba Dr Adegunwa is installed with the distinguished title of the Asiwaju of Ijebuland.

“I am confident that the new Asiwaju will bring his wealth of experience and personal attributes, courage and philanthropy to discharge his new role admirably to the Ijebu people.”

Also, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayọde Adetọna II, who conferred the Chieftaincy title, commended Dr Adegunwa and his wife for distinguishing themselves in character and their fields of endeavour.

He also applauded their contributions to the community’s economic well-being.

Oba Adetona, who has been on the throne for 64 years, said the palace had observed the Adegunwa with “joy and pride”.

“They exhibited uncanny and unblemished sagacity, honesty and integrity and uncommon development in Ijebuland”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

Foreign

FCT: Chinese coy renovate, donates learning materials to enhance education

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By Sarafina Christopher

The China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) with support of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, renovated and donated learning materials to China-Assisted Model Primary School Nyanya, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the distribution of the learning materials was done at the inauguration of the upgraded primary school in Abuja.

Mr Zhou Hao, Managing Director, CRBC Nigeria, whole handing over the materials to the school, said that the items would promote and strengthen education in Nigeria.

Hao emphasised the need for a better learning environment for teachers and students as education was important.

He added that among peoples of different continents, there was a common ground that transcends ethnicity and nationality which is children, who fill the world with hope and brightness.

” Children represent the future’s expectations and aspirations, and they rightfully deserve a better life.

” We believe that improving children’s educational conditions and environments is a shared goal among people from all sectors both China and Nigeria.

” Thus, as a Chinese company operating in Nigeria, we are very eager and honored to contribute our part to the educational efforts in Nigeria,” he said.

He noted that looking at the developmental needs of the Nigerian government and people; CRBC was committed to serving the socio-economic development and improved the livelihood of Nigerians.

” With nearly 10 projects being implemented in Nigeria, covering areas such as roads, railways, flood control, terminals, and chemical industries,

” We will fully utilise our own resources to continuously promote the development of infrastructure and boost economic in Nigeria through our actions,” he said.

Earlier, Mr Zhang Yi, Chargé d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria said that CRBC among others are actively fulfilling their social responsibilities by giving back to the local people.

Zhang said the company does this while carrying out production and operation activities in Nigeria.

“After learning about the aging of some of the school’s office desks and chairs, classroom, blackboards and bathroom facilities, CRBC took the initiative to ask the Chinese Embassy for instructions.

” They expressed their willingness to undertake the repairs of the school and provide learning materials for students so as to provide a better learning environment for all,’’ he said.

Also, Dr Alhassan Sule, Executive Chairman, Education Bureau of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) commended Chinese Government for their continuous support towards improving the quality of education in the country.

He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment towards strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

On his part, Mrs Dada Galadima, the acting Headmistress of the school expressed gratitude to CRBC and the embassy for their unrelenting efforts to contribute to the growth and development of students.

NAN reports that the learning materials includes notebooks, pencils, erasers, rulers, sports equipment, desks, chairs among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Halima Sheji

Culture & Tourism

Tourism: Envoy canvasses creation of visa free policy for Africans

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By Taiye Olayemi

The Rwandan Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Christophe Bazivamo, has called on African leaders to unanimously create a visa free policy to guarantee seamless travels and boost tourism within the region.

Bazivamo made the call during the 48th Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), held on Thursday in Lagos.

According to him, Rwanda has implemented a visa free policy and has been able to boost its economy through this.

He said due to the nation’s visa free tourism policy, Rwanda’s MICE industry (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) recorded a significant growth of 48 per cent in two years, from 2022 to 2023.

“Africa is full of breathtaking natural tourism sites but in spite of such vast assets, the economy is not as vibrant as it should be.

“We need a visa free Africa to facilitate investment, trade and tourism within the region.

“In Rwanda, our visa free tourism policy has boosted our economy. As Africans, we should not be bothered about security issues, we have the population and the resources to unlock our economic potential.

“MICE industry in Rwanda has risen by 48 per cent in the last 2 years due to our visa free tourism policy. This can be replicated across the region,” he said.

Also, Mr Ikechi Uko, a tourism development expert, said it was high time Africans took advantage of their huge population to grow their economy by opening the borders within the region.

According to Uko, trade will be impossible without travels and the major factor to facilitate seamless travels is to have open skies across Africa.

Mr Nkereuwem Onung, National President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), said: “by promoting travel within the continent, we pave the way for deeper cultural exchanges, stronger business collaborations, and increased investment flows.

“Let us envision a future where Nigeria can work hand in hand with other countries to create a seamless and interconnected travel experience.

“The potential benefits are immense. Increased tourism will not only lead to job creation and economic growth but will also foster a sense of unity and understanding among us as a nation.

“It is through travel and tourism that we can truly appreciate and celebrate our common heritage.” (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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