NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Nigeria Customs to deploy E-currency declaration form to curb money laundering
Economy/Business

Nigeria Customs to deploy E-currency declaration form to curb money laundering

378 total views today

By Martha Agas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it will deploy an Electronic-Currency (E-Currency) declaration form as part of its anti-money laundering measures for travellers carrying cash into and out of Nigeria.

The service spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada announced this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

Maiwada said that the form was designed to help travellers declare any currency exceeding the legal threshold before arrival or departure.

NAN reports that the Anti-Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the NCS Act 2023 mandate that travellers carrying over $10,000 (about N15. 4 million) ( or its equivalent in negotiable instruments) must declare it to the NCS.

Maiwada explained that the electronic system would improve monitoring by allowing the NCS to share information with relevant authorities.

“We have developed a system where, even before leaving your point of origin, you can scan a QR code, access the form, fill it out, and we will be able to see it from here.

“The NCS is set to deploy this very soon,” he said.

According to Maiwada, the NCS is working with airline operators to include announcements about the declaration requirement for sums exceeding the stipulated amount.

Maiwada emphasised that the NCS was enhancing awareness on money laundering regulations and reinstating airport signage in English and French.

He noted that recent currency seizures at airports and borders were a result of increased vigilance by the NCS.

“We have reinforced searches at all airports, entry, and exit points identified as high-risk areas for currency movement.

“It is not illegal to move any amount of currency, but when carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent, travellers must declare it. If you conceal it, the law will take its course.

“In Kano Airport, a lady arriving from Saudi Arabia was caught with undeclared cash. Another case at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involved $193,000 concealed in a yogurt carton.

“We have also intercepted undeclared CFA currency at Idiroko border,” he said.

Maiwada further disclosed that the reinforcement of cargo scanning points had been instrumental in detecting smuggled cash.

“Density variations in scanned images serve as red flags, prompting further physical examination,” he explained.

NAN reports NCS recently intercepted undeclared 1.1 million U.S. dollars and 135,900 Saudi Riyals at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.

With these measures, NCS aims to strengthen Nigeria’s financial integrity and support efforts to remove the country from international financial grey lists. (NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

IFAD-VCDP train farmers on climate-smart agriculture
Agriculture

IFAD-VCDP train farmers on climate-smart agriculture

368 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

The International Fund for Agricultural Development-Value Chain Development Programme (IFAD-VCDP) has trained field staff, farmers, and processors in VCDP states on downscaling seasonal predictions and adopting climate-smart agriculture.

The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) provided the 2025 seasonal climate predictions.

The training, which held in Nasarawa on Wednesday, covered Anambra, Benue, Ebonyi, Enugu, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, and Taraba states.

Speaking at the Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop, Mr Nura Lawal, Climate Change Specialist at IFAD-VCDP, said the training would equip farmers with climate-smart practices to mitigate the effects of weather variability.

Lawal stated that the programme would also update farmers on the latest agricultural technologies and equipment.

“The training covers soil management, crop rotation, pest and disease control, and efficient irrigation methods to help farmers adapt to climate change,” he said.

He explained that the pre-season training aimed to prepare extension agents and processors to guide farmers in adopting best practices throughout 2025.

“The training provides farmers with weather and climate advisory services, essential for effective planning,” he added.

Lawal noted that IFAD-VCDP’s collaboration with NiMet ensures farmers receive accurate climate information to support sustainable farming.

“At the end of the workshop, each state will develop a cropping calendar outlining on-farm and off-farm activities.

“With unpredictable weather patterns, many farmers face significant risks. This information will help them mitigate potential losses,” he said.

Ahmad Aboki, Principal Meteorologist at NiMet, presented the 2025 seasonal climate forecast.

He said the growing season in Karu Local Government Area is expected to last between 155 and 177 days, ending between Oct. 17 and 26.

“In Doma LGA, rainfall is expected to start on May 1, while in Nasarawa Egon, Lafia, and Keffi, it will commence between May 6 and 21,” he said.

He also highlighted dry spell predictions, noting that between April and June, Oyo State may experience a severe dry spell lasting over 15 days.

“While Ekiti, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, Edo, Ebonyi, Anambra, Imo, and Abia may see moderate dry spells of up to 15 days, between June and August, Cross River, Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom may experience severe dry spells lasting up to 21 days”.

Aboki emphasised NiMet’s role in providing accurate weather and climate data for economic development, disaster preparedness, and early warning systems.

He reaffirmed NiMet’s ongoing partnership with IFAD-VCDP to improve crop yields and farming systems through climate adaptation.

Mustapha Baba’aji, Principal Meteorologist, noted the increasing impact of climate change in Nigeria, including extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves.

“Farmers are increasingly concerned about unpredictable rainy seasons, flooding, and damage to infrastructure and ecosystems,” he said.

Susan Akaaga, a rice farmer and processor from Benue, praised the training for providing valuable insights into weather patterns and optimal planting times.

“This training has helped me understand when to plant for better yields,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Tosin Kolade

NALDA pledges support for displaced farmers
Agriculture

NALDA pledges support for displaced farmers

328 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has pledged to help farmers displaced by farmer-herder conflicts and land encroachment regain their livelihoods and improve food security.

The Executive Secretary of NALDA, Cornelius Adebayo, made this commitment during an interactive session with journalists on Tuesday in Abuja.

He stated that the initiative would be achieved through the organisation’s project tagged ‘Renewed Hope Restoration’.

Adebayo revealed that over 3.5 million farmers have been displaced across the country as a result of conflicts, encroachment, and other security challenges.

He explained that, through the project, farmers would be grouped into clusters and provided with the necessary inputs, technologies, and support to boost production and increase their income.

“To address recurring farmer-herder conflicts, land encroachment, and security challenges, NALDA is introducing the Renewed Hope Farm Settlements, where smallholder farmers will be clustered in designated areas.

“These settlements will provide farmers with essential inputs, security, and training, while also reducing logistics and monitoring costs.

“By clustering farmers, we ensure their protection, enhance monitoring, and create a more structured agricultural system.   

“Our role at NALDA is not to cultivate but to facilitate an environment where agriculture thrives as a profitable business.

“The goal of the restoration project is to enable displaced individuals to thrive, not just survive.

“This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s food security and economy,” he said.

He added that the project could have a lasting impact on those affected by lowering production costs.

Adebayo, who identified the organisation’s main projects as four in total, said they were designed to boost food and aquaculture production, promote self-sufficiency, and reduce import costs.

He listed other projects, including greenhouse farming and the Aqua Hopeinitiative, among others.

The executive secretary also highlighted Nigeria’s deficit in food and fish supply.

“We are still importing over a million tonnes of fish annually while producing less than 300,000 tonnes.

“We aim to encourage women and youth in coastal and riverine areas to engage in aquaculture, particularly tilapia and catfish farming.

“NALDA will develop fish clusters featuring earth ponds, cage farms, processing centres, packaging hubs, and cold storage facilities.

“This model will create hundreds of entrepreneurs and enhance Nigeria’s capacity for fish export, reducing reliance on imported tilapia.

“Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom have limited arable land, and NALDA will expand its focus on aquaculture in those states”. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade 

ECOWAS@50: Man embarks on 50-day celebration road trip across W/Africa
Foreign

ECOWAS@50: Man embarks on 50-day celebration road trip across W/Africa

339 total views today

By Mark Longyen

A 40-year-old Nigerian, Bishir Dauda, plans a 50-day advocacy and solidarity journey across West African countries to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS.

Dauda announced his initiative in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during a visit to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

Dauda is a pro-democracy activist, human rights defender, Pan-Africanist, and Executive Director of Citizens Participation Against Corruption Initiatives, a non-governmental organisation.

He described the journey as his unique way of honouring ECOWAS’ golden jubilee.

The Pan-Africanist highlighted ECOWAS’ remarkable achievements over the past five decades, emphasising the organisation’s resilience and unity  in spite of significant challenges.

According to him, any institution that has endured for 50 years while positively impacting nearly 400 million people deserves recognition.

“Over the past 50 years, ECOWAS has transformed from a mere international organisation into a dynamic community with strong institutions and tangible achievements that continue to benefit the region.

“One major milestone worth celebrating is the removal of visa restrictions, which has facilitated free movement across member states.

“This has boosted trade, education, tourism, and other activities.

“As a citizen of the ECOWAS community, I see this advocacy journey as an opportunity to express my appreciation for the organization’s contributions over the past five decades,” he said.

Dauda, who hails from Nigeria’s North-West state of Katsina, and a graduate of History from the Umaru Yar’Adua University, disclosed that he would begin the journey on April 1, from Lagos State, Nigeria.

Dauda is also canvassing for the return of Sahel states to ECOWAS bloc.

The activist said that during his journey, he would engage with ordinary citizens in the countries he visits, gathering their thoughts on ECOWAS and its achievements.

“I will also use this opportunity to debunk the false narrative being spread by some that ECOWAS is merely a puppet of Western powers,” he said.

Dauda added that he would visit key ECOWAS projects, including the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) in Lomé, and the West African Power Pool (WAPP) in Cotonou.

He hopes to also visit the Abidjan-Lagos Highway project, and the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Abidjan.

As a committed Pan-Africanist, Dauda noted that he would also urge fellow West Africans to appeal to Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to reconsider their recent withdrawal from ECOWAS.

“I will use this advocacy journey to call on Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to rethink and reverse their decision to leave ECOWAS.

“Anyone who is truly passionate about African unity and integration will hope to see these countries return to the bloc.

“Part of my mission is to send a message to their military governments, urging them to reconsider because regional integration is crucial for our collective progress,” he said.

Dauda also revealed that the journey was entirely self-funded, with no financial support from any individual or organisation.

According to him, he plans to document his experiences and insights from the trip in a book, aiming to contribute to the advancement of Pan-Africanism.

NAN recalls that ECOWAS, founded on May 28, 1975, to promote economic integration and political unity in the subregion, has lined up various activities ahead of its 50th-anniversary celebrations in May.(NAN)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

FG unveils water project at Abuja NYSC camp
Environment

FG unveils water project at Abuja NYSC camp

489 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Government has inaugurated a solar-powered water facility at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Kubwa, FCT, as part of the 2025 World Water Day celebrations.

Speaking at the event on Saturday, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving water and sanitation under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Utsev described NYSC as a crucial institution where young Nigerians undergo mandatory national service, making access to clean water essential for their well-being.

He said the ministry had taken proactive steps to address water and sanitation challenges at the camp, which accommodates thousands of corps members every two weeks.

“This water facility will significantly improve access to clean water, promote hygiene, and enhance overall health within the camp.

“The initiative aligns with the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign, which aims to improve sanitation nationwide,” he stated.

Utsev also highlighted the 2025 World Water Day theme:, ‘Glacier Preservation’, noting that glacier loss contributes to rising sea levels, extreme weather, and water shortages, which impact Nigeria.

He urged corps members and camp officials to take ownership of the facility and use it responsibly to ensure its long-term sustainability.

The minister expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership in enhancing water infrastructure.

He also commended the NYSC leadership and stakeholders for their contributions, encouraging Nigerians to support sustainable water management efforts.

Earlier, the NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Olakunke Nafiu, represented by Alhaji Jimkashi Abdullahi, the Deputy Director Planning, Research and Policy, thanked the ministry for its dedication to improving water access.

Abdullahi acknowledged that water supply has been a longstanding challenge at NYSC camps, affecting both corps members and camp officials.

He emphasised that clean water is fundamental to health, productivity, and sustainable development.

“This intervention represents a significant step towards improving water supply at the camp.

“It also highlights what can be achieved through collaboration between government agencies, reinforcing the importance of partnerships in addressing national development challenges,” he said.

He assured that NYSC management would continue to partner with the government to support national development and urged corps members and staff to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the facility.

“This project is not just an investment in infrastructure but an investment in Nigeria’s future. I commend all those who contributed to making it a reality and appreciate your presence at this event,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Water Day is celebrated annually on March 22 to create awareness on global water challenges.

In sub-saharan Africa, 387 million still struggle without safe water, a crisis set to worsen as the continent’s population rises to 2.5 billion by 2050. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Geregu Power boss outlines plan for energy sufficiency
Economy/Business

Geregu Power boss outlines plan for energy sufficiency

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Geregu Power Plc, Mr Akin Akinfemiwa, has unveiled a roadmap broken into short, medium and long term action plans to achieve power sufficiency in Nigeria.

Akinfemiwa said this at the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) March 2025 Members Evening/ Induction ceremony on Thursday in Lagos.

The ceremony was held in honour of Mr Uyi Akpata, the immediate past Country Senior Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Nigeria, and Regional Senior Partner for PwC West Africa on his retirement.

Akinfemiwa noted that to address the country’s economic challenges, the Federal Government had recently set an ambitious target to achieve a trillion-dollar economy by 2030.

He noted that improving reliable power supply would be the single most important driver to achieve this objective.

This, he said, was because there was a 3.94 per cent improvement in the economy for every 1 per cent increase in power supply.

“With stable, affordable, and reliable power, Nigeria can unlock massive economic opportunities, drive industrialisation, create jobs, and position itself as Africa’s economic powerhouse.

“Alignment with a clear roadmap and the collective efforts from government, private sector, and global partners, we will achieve sustainable power for the country,” he said.

Akinfemiwa stated that in the short-term (zero to three years), Nigeria must upgrade and maintain aging transmission and distribution networks, invest in real-time grid monitoring and improve metering.

He said cost-reflective tariffs must be implemented, regulatory oversight should be strengthened, while settlement of debts owed to GenCos and gas suppliers must be fast-paced.

The expert stated that in the medium-term between three and seven years, the country must develop new gas-fired power plants and promote private sector investments in gas infrastructure.

He added that Nigeria should address pipeline vandalism and gas flaring issues to ensure stable supply, construct new high-capacity transmission lines and establish independent transmission service operators.

Akinfemiwa also called for the decentralisation of electricity distribution to encourage local investments in microgrids, deploy smart meters and strengthen Public-Private Partnerships through incentives.

“For the long-term which is seven years and above, the country should diversify energy sources, enhance energy efficiency policies and deepen regional power trade and interconnectivity.

“There must be nationwide implementation of smart grids to reduce outages and optimise load balancing, expanded energy storage solutions and the enforcement of stricter environmental regulations for thermal power plants,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr Ray Atelly, President, NBCC, noted that the chamber had consistently been a beacon of excellence, driven by a shared vision and a commitment to fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation.

Atelly said every of its membership played an essential role in shaping the chamber’s path.

He welcomed the new inductees and acknowledged their potential to enrich the chamber’s collective endeavour.

Atelly said their unique perspectives and skills would contribute significantly to the NBCC’s ongoing mission and drive the chamber toward new horizons.

“Similarly, we would like to take this opportunity to recognise our esteemed friend of the chamber and a valued council member, Mr Uyi Akpata, for his distinguished career at the prestigious PwC.

“His years of dedication and excellence in the corporate world have been both remarkable and inspiring,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 17 organisations including Zenith Bank and Aradel Holdings Plc were inducted into the NBCC. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Nigeria, India seek stronger trade ties
Economy/Business

Nigeria, India seek stronger trade ties

396 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Representatives from Nigeria and India have explored ways to strengthen their long-standing friendship and bilateral trade partnership while identifying new areas of cooperation.

This was the focus of the Nigeria-India Bilateral Business Meeting held in Lagos on Thursday.

Mr Gabriel Idahosa, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), stated that Nigeria and India share a rich history of economic and cultural ties that have developed over decades.

Idahosa, who was represented by Mr Leye Kupoluyi, Deputy President of the LCCI, stated that as both countries navigate a rapidly changing global economic landscape, it is essential to strengthen and diversify their bilateral engagements.

He noted that in the fourth quarter of 2024, Nigeria’s total merchandise trade stood at N36.6 trillion, reflecting a significant increase of 68.32 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.

Idahosa added that this growth reflects the resilience and potential of the Nigerian economy, driven by strong demand for foreign goods and services across various sectors.

“India has consistently been one of Nigeria’s top trading partners, reflecting the deep economic interlinkages between our nations.

“In Q4 2024, India emerged as Nigeria’s fourth-largest export destination, with exports valued at N1.60 trillion, accounting for 7.98 per cent of Nigeria’s total exports.

“On the import side, India was Nigeria’s second-largest source of imports, with goods worth N1.90 trillion, representing 11.43 per cent of Nigeria’s total imports.

“This bilateral trade relationship is characterised by the exchange of vital commodities and services that are essential to the growth and development of both economies,” he said.

The LCCI president said the energy, agricultural, pharmaceutical and machinery sectors are strong components of the trade dynamics of both countries.

Idahosa, however, noted that in spite of the strong bilateral trade, there were significant opportunities for enhanced collaboration.

He said diversifying trade beyond crude oil and raw agricultural products to include manufactured goods, technology services, and value-added products would foster a more sustainable economic relationship.

“Furthermore, Indian investment in Nigeria’s industrialisation, particularly in manufacturing, agro-processing and technology, can generate employment and boost economic development.

“Joint knowledge exchange programmes in education, research and technology transfer, renewable energy and biotechnology will further strengthen bilateral cooperation.

“As we look ahead, it is evident that the Nigeria-India bilateral business relationship holds immense promise.

“By leveraging our respective strengths, addressing existing challenges, and fostering a spirit of collaboration, we can unlock new opportunities that will benefit our economies and societies,” he said.

Ms Vartika Rawat, Acting Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, noted that India and Nigeria had achieved significant milestones since establishing diplomatic relations in 1958.

Rawat stated that India, in its development journey, not only focused on itself but also opened its growth story for the global good, extending assistance to its neighbours and friends around the world.

She said that the country, currently at the forefront of fighting climate change, also provided capacity-building assistance under ITEC/e-ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation) to over 160 countries.

Rawat noted that since both countries established diplomatic ties in 1958, education and capacity building had been the focus areas of the relationship.

“One of the major requirements for developing relations between two countries is direct connectivity to ease the movement of people and goods.

“While Air Peace started operating direct flights from Lagos to Mumbai in March 2023, I understand that it has been suspended due to logistical reasons.

“Indian airlines have also requested permission from Nigerian Authorities for starting direct and code share flights from India to Nigeria.

“I am sure these developments will give a new impetus to our relationship and increase the people-to-people contact,” she said.

She stressed the need for both countries to drive development partnerships and cultural cooperation, while opening new vistas in trade and economic relationships.

Rawat said that while there was a tendency to follow known paths and traditional methods of doing business, Nigerian companies should look at the strengths of India in various futuristic fields.

She said areas like financial technology, Artificial Intelligence, health – including vaccine manufacturing, digital and green growth were critical to be adapted to the needs and requirements of Nigeria. (NAN)

Edited by Okeoghene Akubuike/Christiana Fadare

UNESCO, UK, others provide £1.9m grant to boost tech, innovation
Science & Tech

UNESCO, UK, others provide £1.9m grant to boost tech, innovation

430 total views today

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

UNESCO in collaboration with its partners have inaugurated the Sankore project in West Africa, to boost economic diversification and development.

The programme, was inaugurated on Thursday in Abuja in partnership with Results for Development (R4D), and the UK International Development.

The programme comes under the Strengthening UK-West Africa Science, Technology and Innovation Partnerships for Sustainable Development initiative.

Sankore is a new grant delivery mechanism of up to £1.9 million supported by the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO).

Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), said the Sankore project resonated with President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point agenda on economic growth.

“The Sankore project promises enhanced economic growth in improving public service delivery and raise strong partners across our region.

“Importantly, it seeks to address and establish through both frameworks to ensure coordinated project delivery and results monitoring of outcomes and impacts,” he said.

He said that a steering committee would be set up and saddled with the responsibility of providing strategic direction and ensuring accountability.

Ms Susan Mshana, Deputy Director and Head, Integrated Strategy and Delivery Unit, British High Commission, said that they were aligning with the national mandate of both Ghana and Nigeria.

“The programme compliments other UK funding interventions and programmes like Manufacturing Africa, Global Innovation Fund, British International Investment and many others.

“Specifically, Sankore will be supportive in operationalising the Ghana National Research Fund, the Nigerian National Research Fund, facilitating the commercialisation of innovation solutions in priority economic sectors such as agriculture and energy.

“It will enhance the innovation and technology policy and regulatory environment, including improving data accessibility and transparency in policy implementation to grow productivity of innovation ecosystem,” she said.

Dr Ibrahim Murtala, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Ghana, said poor investment in Research and Development (R&D) had led to stunted development on the continent.

“The average investment for R&D stood at about 0.42 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Africa and 0.3 per cent of GDP in Ghana after more than four decades of the Lagos Declaration.

“The declaration enjoined African countries to invest at least one per cent of GDP in Research and Development (R&D).

“Patents filings for the whole of Africa is less than one per cent and publications in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Biotechnology remain low in comparison with global publications.

“Sankore will be a catalyst to securing Ghana’s future as a hub for scientific advancement and technological innovation in the region,” he said.

He also said that with commitment countries in Africa could surmount the numerous challenges bedeviling the continent.

Ms Kornelia Tzinova, Head, Natural Sciences Sector, UNESCO Regional Office for West Africa, Dakar, Senegal, said the project would last till March 2026.

“We will be ensuring that we strengthen the National Science Technology and Innovation systems in both Ghana and Nigeria.

“The two countries have been chosen also to strengthen the UK, Nigeria and Ghana bilateral strategies in science, technology and innovation,” she said.

Earlier, Mr Edmond Moukala, Head of UNESCO Office, Ghana, said the project would assist Ghana and Nigeria to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He recalled that UNESCO had been designated as the lead agency for the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development 2024 to 2033.

“The decade represents a unique opportunity for science to serve humanity and to protect our planet.

“It is also an opportunity to force societies to solve the most pressing challenges in West Africa. The Sankore project, therefore, presenst a platform that will foster the ideas of the decade.

The Sankore project was expected to support Nigeria and Ghana in navigating ways to address critical national challenges related to economic diversification, job creation, climate resilience, among others using STI initiatives.

The project is being implemented by UNESCO and R4D, in collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST), Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) and relevant stakeholders. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Tinubu lauds NASS for ratifying Rivers state of emergency
General News

Tinubu lauds NASS for ratifying Rivers state of emergency

321 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday lauded the National Assembly for ratifying the State of Emergency proclamation in Rivers State.

In a statement by his spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President described the decision as a crucial step in restoring stability.

He highlighted that the prolonged political crisis had paralysed governance and jeopardised national economic security for more than 15 months.

He commended the leadership of the National Assembly, including Sen. Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, and Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives.

He also praised other principal officers and members for prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers people over partisan interests.

The President also acknowledged the lawmakers’ careful review of classified security briefings, emphasising the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.

“The crisis in Rivers was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy.

“This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” Tinubu stated.

He affirmed that the six-month emergency would empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilise Rivers, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.

The President further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.

“This decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the actions of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

Tinubu also thanked Nigerians for their understanding and urged all stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

NGO urges action to transform Nigeria’s food system
Agriculture

NGO urges action to transform Nigeria’s food system

384 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

One Acre Fund (OAF), an international NGO, has called for urgent action from the government, agricultural stakeholders, financial institutions, development partners, and civil society organisations to ensure food system transformation in Nigeria.

Adetola Adegbite, OAF Nigeria Country Director, made the call at the National Stakeholders’ Dialogue on Thursday in Abuja, themed “Achieving Food Security in Nigeria: Bridging the Gap”.

Adegbite stressed that achieving food security required collective commitment and action, describing collaboration as key to transforming the country’s food system.

He expressed concern over Nigeria’s growing food security challenges, driven by climate change, economic instability, limited access to quality agricultural inputs, and market constraints for smallholder farmers.

“With over 40 per cent of the population living below the poverty line and nearly 20 per cent of children under five suffering from chronic malnutrition, based on the 2020 World Bank report, urgent action is needed to build resilient food systems that support both farmers and consumers.

“Nigeria is a nation of 200 million or 220 million people, with smallholder farmers producing nearly 80 per cent of our food supply, yet we face serious food security challenges.

“Good leadership, strong partnerships, and targeted investment will change this trajectory to bridge the gaps with smart solutions.

“We believe that smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of our food system, are key contributors to transforming agriculture in Nigeria.

“By working together to strengthen our agricultural foundation, improving soil health, financing, market access, and value chains, we can build resilience, improve livelihoods through agronomy, and secure the economy of our nation,” he said.

Adegbite stated that the dialogue aimed to build a sustainable and resilient food system for future generations.

He noted that a farmer’s greatest strength was not just the seeds he planted but the health of the soil, emphasising that partnerships provide the foundation farmers need to thrive.

He further stated that the dialogue offered an opportunity to share insights and develop practical solutions for achieving food security in Nigeria.

Adegbite stressed that collective action from government agencies, agribusinesses, financial institutions, development partners, and civil society was essential in building an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural system.

He said the dialogue aimed to address food security challenges, highlight solutions for smallholder farmers, and promote collaboration across sectors.

“The objective is also to discuss climate adaptation strategies and sustainable farming practices that enhance resilience and food production.

“To shape policy recommendations that strengthen the agricultural sector and improve smallholder farmers’ access to inputs, finance, and markets,” he said.

Adegbite said the theme of the dialogue challenged all stakeholders to address the disconnect in the country’s food system.

“The gap between policies and implementation, how do we ensure government policies effectively support smallholder farmers?

“How do we address the gap between farmers and the market, improve supply chains, reduce post-harvest losses, and channel resources to areas where they are needed?”

Mr Emmanuel Bamgboye, Field Operations/Programme Lead at OAF Nigeria, stated that the dialogue was an opportunity for stakeholders to unite in addressing the challenge of achieving sustainable and inclusive food security.

In his presentation, “One Acre Fund’s Programmes in Nigeria: Contributing to Food Security”, Bamgboye identified achieving sustainable and inclusive food security as one of Nigeria’s most urgent issues.

He explained that the organisation envisions farmers earning more through larger harvests, improved market access, fair prices, and minimised post-harvest losses.

According to him, when farmers thrive, families eat better, children receive education, and rural communities flourish.

“To achieve these and many more in transforming Nigeria’s food security, we must scale up agricultural innovations that enhance productivity and foster climate resilience.

“Revise policies that grant smallholders better access to finance, land, and extension services.

“Invest in infrastructure and value chains so farmers can efficiently store and market their harvests.

“Empower women and youth, the foundational pillars of tomorrow’s agricultural sector”. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

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