NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG to shift 1m households from firewood to cleaner energy
Gender

FG to shift 1m households from firewood to cleaner energy

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By Justina Auta

The Federal Government on Friday says it is working toward transiting one million households from firewood-based cooking to clean and sustainable energy solutions.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, made this known during a citizen’s engagement news conference in commemoration of her 100 days in office in Abuja.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim said that this was part of efforts to promote gender-responsive climate action.

She said that Nigeria’s participation at COP29 in Azerbaijan provided a platform to engage with international community on gender-responsive climate action.

According to her, women are at the frontline of climate change impacts, and are ensuring that their voices, solutions, and leadership are integrated into climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

“In this regard, we are working to transition one million households from firewood-based cooking to clean and sustainable energy solutions,” she said.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim said that the initiative was part of strategies to drive impactful reforms that would empower, protect and uplift the lives of women, girls and vulnerable populations.

She said that the ministry would empower 10 million women economically by 2027, ensuring that they played vital roles in Nigeria’s economic transformation.

“This aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of a $1 trillion economy, where women are key contributors to national productivity,” the minister said.

She said that steps had been taken to achieve it by the commencement of the implementation of the World Bank supported ‘Nigeria for Women Scale-Up Project’, targeting 4.5 million women across the 36 states and the FCT.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim said that through financial literacy, business development, and cooperative structures, women would be equipped with tools to build sustainable enterprises and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

She said that through the MOWA-SARA Accelerated Skills Acquisition Programme in collaboration with WEMA Bank, 500,000 women would be trained in vocational skills, business entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, among others.

“The first phase of the programme is currently underway in Kano State with 2,500 women being trained at the Ministry of Women Affairs Centre in Dederi and the Kano Hospitality & Tourism Institute in Gyadi-Gyadi.

“Also, to further strengthen access to finance, the ministry is working on setting up a National Microfinance Framework for Women Entrepreneurs.

“This initiative aims to bridge the financing gap for women, ensuring they have affordable credit, investment opportunities, and gender-responsive financial services.

“This will help them to grow their businesses and contribute more effectively to national development,” the minister said.

She said that food intervention programme for women and vulnerable groups had been unveiled for financial empowerment amidst economic hardships facing many families.

“By providing direct food assistance and supporting women-led agricultural initiatives, we are ensuring that no woman or child is left behind in our collective journey toward prosperity,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said.

She said that the ministry also unveiled a nationwide campaign to provide menstrual hygiene kits to 10,000 young girls, thereby ensuring that they stay in school and maintain their dignity to end period poverty.

“My first 100 days in office have been marked by bold decisions, strategic partnerships and measurable impact.

“However, the work ahead is even greater and our commitment to transforming the lives of women and children remains resolute,” the minister said.

On her part, the Minister of State for Education, Dr Suwaiba Sa’id-Ahmad, said that there was the need for women to seize the opportunities available to empower themselves and contribute to national development.

Said-Ahmad said that the Minister of Women Affairs had attained a great milage in meeting the aspirations of Nigerian women in just 100 days of her being in office.

“We have a lot of our girls that have not been opportuned to attend school for one reason or another, so we want to increase access to education by going to those communities that don’t have access.

“Early marriages, teenage pregnancy and emotional intelligence are some challenges facing the girl-child.

“We see the kind of passion the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs carries in her activities, so we know she is capable to tackle these challenges,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Christiana Fadare

New 120KVA mini-grid to boost MSME productivity – UNDP
General News

New 120KVA mini-grid to boost MSME productivity – UNDP

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By Diana Omueza

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has said that the new 120KVA Mini-Grid at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Idu Centre, would enhance the productivity of Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.

Ms Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative in Nigeria of the United Nations Development Programme, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.

NAN reports that the UNDP in collaboration with Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), recently installed a 120KVA solar-powered mini-grid and state-of-the-art makerspace to enhance energy access for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria.

Attafuah said that the mini-grid and the makerspace facility were initiatives aimed to provide uninterrupted, sustainable, and affordable power, addressing one of the most critical challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small businesses in the country.

“This cutting-edge facility will equip MSMEs particularly those in the fashion, leather, circular economy, and creative industries with modern digital tools, machinery, shared production spaces, and business support services.

“It would enable them to scale operations, improve quality, and compete in local and global markets.

“The twin initiatives  – sustainable energy access and advanced skills development infrastructure – reflect UNDP’s commitment to fostering a thriving MSME ecosystem, promoting economic resilience, and driving inclusive industrialisation in Nigeria,” she said.

The UNDP representative said that facilities provided offered a new chapter for MSMEs especially those in Abuja to thrive in today’s competitive economy.

According to her, the initiative not only supports local innovation but also links Nigerian businesses to regional and continental trade opportunities.

She said that the refurbishment of the facility was part of UNDP’s broader commitment to strengthening the MSMEs ecosystem in the country and to drive trade within Nigeria and Africa at large.

Attafuah said that by supporting MSMEs and promoting sustainable practices, UNDP and SMEDAN were contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and its integration into regional and global value chains.

She noted that the initiative aligned with UNDP’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and empowering communities.

“Recent interventions at SMEDAN, Idu centre, such as the solarisation of the garment-making section with a 120 KVA Hybrid Mini-grid inverter system with 240 KWH Lithium Battery have significantly improved energy reliability, enabling the fashion hub to thrive.

“Access to renewable energy will enhance productivity while reducing costs, making it easier for fashion entrepreneurs to meet the rising demand for Nigerian-made products, both locally and across African markets under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA),” she said.

In a separate interview, Mr Charles Odii, Director General of SMEDAN, commended the collaboration of the UNDP in provision of the mini-grid and the state of the art markerspace power supply facility.

He said that the facilities marked a critical milestone in SMEDAN’s vision to transform all its centres into one-stop shops for MSMEs in the country.

“These centers will provide entrepreneurs with seamless access to critical resources, including innovative facilities, regulatory support, and capacity-building opportunities.

“Our commitment remains unwavering in creating an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive, and we will continue to pursue strategic partnerships, like this collaboration with UNDP, to ensure this vision becomes a reality,” he said.

Odii said that the facility had further proven the UNDP’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions and fostering sustainable development, collaborative workspaces equipped with advanced technology and facilities for the benefits of MSMES.

He urged MSMEs within and around Abuja to optimise the facilities provided and available at the SMEDAN Idu center to boost productivity and grow the nation’s economy.

According to him, we expect MSMEs to fully utilise these facilities, it will help them in prototype design and manufacture products, thereby boosting their productivity and competitiveness.

Odii added that the makerspace would serve as a hub where entrepreneurs could access support from SMEDAN and other regulatory agencies, providing a solid foundation for MSMEs to scale their businesses and increase their competitiveness. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

FG approves concession of Kashimbila Cargo/Agro-Allied Airport
Economy/Business

FG approves concession of Kashimbila Cargo/Agro-Allied Airport

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the concession of the Kashimbila Integrated Cargo/Agro-Allied Airport in Taraba, under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

A statement issued in Abuja on Friday by Ifeanyi Nwoko, Acting Head, Media and Publicity, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), said that the projects were approved under the regulatory guidance of the ICRC.

The statement said the project cuts across agriculture, water resources and aviation sectors.

It said that on one hand, it featured the upgrade of an airstrip in Kashimbilla to a Cargo/Agro-Allied Airport.

“On the other hand, it has a combination of no fewer than 3,000 hectares of farmland, fish farming facilities and a ranch for livestock farming”.

The statement quoted Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, Director-General (D-G), ICRC, as commending President Bola Tinubu for quickly approving the project whose facilities are expected to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural export potential.

“The processes for this project were started and completed in six months, in fulfilment of the charge given to me by President Tinubu to accelerate PPP projects’ procurement.

“The Kashimbila project includes the concession of over 3,000 hectares of farmland for irrigation farming and the upgrade of the airport for agro-cargo services.

“It also includes the development of an aerotropolis and Free Trade Zone with business parks, logistics hubs and residential areas”.

The D-G said the project located in Taraba, aimed to enhance agricultural logistics, improve market access and stimulate economic development.

Ewalefoh said that the concession would among other things, boost agricultural productivity by enabling year-round irrigation farming and create employment opportunities.

He said that the concession would also attract investment in agribusiness and stimulate local and national economies through trade and exports.

Ewalefoh said that with the Kashimbilla project, regional integration would be enhanced as Taraba would be connected to the national and international markets, facilitating trade, as thousands of direct and indirect jobs would be created.

He said that the project was expected to generate N4.1 trillion in revenue from multiple sources during the concession period.

The D-G thanked the relevant ministries for their efforts in ensuring the success of the inter-agency collaboration to achieve the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

Nestlé invests N1.8bn to support FCT pastoralists
Agriculture

Nestlé invests N1.8bn to support FCT pastoralists

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By Felicia Imohimi

Nestlé Nigeria has invested over N1.8 billion to enhance the livelihoods of pastoralists in and around the Paikon Kore Grazing Reserve in the Federal Capital Territory.

Mr Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, announced this on Thursday in Abuja at the unveiling of the Nestlé Dairy Demonstration Farm under its Nestlé Livestock Development Project (NLDP).

Elhusseini explained that the NLDP, implemented in collaboration with CBI Innovations and 2SCALE since 2019, is structured around three pillars: better milk, better feed (fodder), and resilient communities.

“The NLDP project has invested N1,858,000,000 and currently aggregates an average of 6,000 litres of fresh milk per day from 1,600 dairy households.

“The project ambition is to aggregate 30,000 litres of milk per day by November 2027 by improving local breeds and applying best dairy farming practices,” he said.

He noted that milk producers participating in the programme had seen an increase in their household monthly income, from N70,000 to N250,000 between 2021 and 2024.

This growth, he said, was driven by improved dairy practices and the provision of enabling infrastructure within the community.

He added that milk collection at the Paikon Kore centre had increased from an initial 200 litres on 1 June 2021 to an average of 6,000 litres.

“To date, the project has aggregated over one million litres of raw milk, benefiting 3,000 milk producers who are part of the 83 successful dairy cooperatives established under the NLDP.

“This increase in productivity is a direct result of training over 2,000 pastoralists in dairy practices, vaccinating over 36,000 cattle, and constructing 19 boreholes and 28 water troughs to ensure consistent access to water.

“We are establishing a practical model for implementing best dairy practices that will further consolidate and sustain the success of the NLDP, fostering sustainable prosperity for our community of milk producers, aggregators, and farmers,” he added.

Elhusseini stated that the initiative had significantly improved milk quality, reducing rejection rates from 12 per cent in 2021 to five per cent in 2024.

He reaffirmed the company’s goal to achieve a critical mass of 30,000 litres of milk production per day by November 2027 across the FCT and its adjoining dairy farm clusters.

He emphasised that this effort would make a huge contribution to regional food security.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, commended Nestlé for its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

He described the dairy farm as a key milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards food security, economic growth, and sustainable livestock development.

Maiha identified the project’s benefits, including enhanced productivity through climate-smart sustainable practices, capacity-building for local farmers, and a reliable source of income for thousands of rural families via the Paikon Kore milk collection hub.

He, however, pledged the ministry’s commitment to tackling major industry challenges, such as infrastructure deficits, limited access to finance, and the need for improved veterinary services.

Olusoji Apampa, Chief Executive Officer of CBI Innovations Ltd (CBIIL), described the unveiling as the beginning of a transformative era in Nigeria’s dairy industry, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and sustainability.

Apampa said the dairy farm serves as a testament to “our dedication to sustainable milk use and quality, supported by robust herd health practices, effective livestock management, and breed improvement.

“It is enhanced by technology to minimise the impact on production economies while nurturing the environment and bolstering the local economy”.

He revealed that the animal population on the farm had increased from 20 to 71 cattle over the past year and eight months.

“By employing artificial insemination, we have ensured that our use of technology improves livestock well-being, enhances operational efficiency, and elevates the quality of milk production.

“From automated well, semi-automated—milking systems to sustainable waste management practices and improved animal feed, we have left no stone unturned in our pursuit of excellence,” he said.

Lawan Geidam, Mandate Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development at the FCTA, stated that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to foster economic growth and national development. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Ex-Navy Chief urges tech integration in management
Economy/Business

Ex-Navy Chief urges tech integration in management

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

The immediate past Chief of Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Awwal Gambo (rtd), has called for the integration of emerging technologies into management practices to enhance organisational success.

He made the call on Wednesday in Lagos at the investiture ceremony of the 25th President of the Nigerian Institute of Management Chartered (NIM), Commodore Abimbola Ayuba.

Gambo noted that technological advancement had defined human civilisation from the industrial revolution to the rise of the digital economy in the 21st century.

According to him, each era of innovation necessitates a corresponding evolution in management practices.

He stated that the responsibility of formulating effective strategies to navigate the shifting landscape rested on the NIM.

“However, there are challenges such as cultural inertia of embracing new technologies, job loss concerns, as well as cyber security issues impacting technology integration.

“These challenges carry significant management implications, necessitating thoughtful deliberation by the institute to develop strategic solutions that will shape national defense policy.

“Management professionals must embrace a forward-thinking approach that champions adaptive leadership,” he said.

The outgoing President, NIM, Dr Christiana Atako, presented an account of her two-year stewardship as the 24th president and Chairman, Council of NIM.

Atako said upon assuming office as president, her team adopted a three pronged strategy and an eight point agenda to tackle challenges and guide the institute’s activities for the period.

She said her first assignment was to restructure and re-engineer the institute owing to events that threatened its very existence at the time.

“To give impetus to a revitalised NIM, deliberate action was taken to prioritise training of its workforce towards increased productivity and better service delivery.

“Furthermore, the institute witnessed an unprecedented growth in influence and membership size during our tenure.

“I spearheaded initiatives that promoted ethical management practices and advocated for higher standards in the Nigerian business community.

“Our vision for NIM was one of inclusivity and innovation, and we worked tirelessly to ensure that the institute remained relevant in national discourse,” she said.

The outgoing president expressed hope that since the institute’s leadership was a continuum, the incoming administration would build and consolidate on the achievements of the past two years.

In his acceptance speech, the 25th president, NIM, Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, lauded the institute’s body of past presidents, whom he said, had been the shinning light that kept NIM illuminated.

Ayuba said he was filled with an urgent sense of purpose and responsibility, as he took up the mantle of leadership of the NIM.

He reiterated his commitment to upholding the age-long and time-tested values and principles which guided the institute since its inception in 1961.

The newly-elected president emphasised the importance of unity of purpose, saying the institute was a microcosm of Nigeria, comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds, ethnicity, and religion.

“It is imperative that we put aside these diversities and differences and work towards achieving common goals.

“The goals are firstly, to promote excellence in management practice, secondly, to foster a culture of professionalism, and thirdly, to contribute to the development of our dear nation.

“Consequently, we must recognise that our diversity provide for us enormous strength, and that our collective efforts will yield far greater results than individual pursuits.

“In other words, we should be gearing towards creating a synergistic homeostasis that will keep the institute as a leading brand and major change agent in Nigeria and beyond,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ayodeji Alabi

Water Resources, Blue Economy ministries partner to boost food production
Agriculture

Water Resources, Blue Economy ministries partner to boost food production

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By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Ministries of Water Resources and the Marine and Blue Economy have pledged to collaborate to enhance food production in Nigeria.

This partnership aims at strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector and ensuring sustainable food production by leveraging the country’s vast water resources.

The commitment was reaffirmed on Thursday when the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev in Abuja.

Both ministers stressed the importance of inter-ministerial partnerships in improving water resource management, marine conservation, and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s blue economy.

Utsev noted the collaboration’s importance following the National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation’s emphasis on both ministries’ roles in sustaining Nigeria’s water bodies.

He emphasised that sustainable water and sanitation services are vital for public health, food security, job creation and economic growth.

He outlined the strategic role of various departments within the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

“These departments oversee initiatives such as providing clean and reliable water supply, developing and managing irrigation systems, hydropower generation, fisheries development and flood control.

“These efforts are crucial for food security and economic resilience,” he said.

Utsev expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership in advancing the food security agenda.

He further announced that a joint committee would be established by both ministries to develop a working document with a clear framework to guide their collaboration for the benefit of all Nigerians.

In his remarks, Oyetola revealed the untapped potential of Nigeria’s water bodies for fisheries, food security and economic growth.

He noted that fish production in Nigeria would be enhanced through stronger collaboration between the two ministries.

Oyetola highlighted the ministry’s role in sustainable water management for healthy ecosystems and pollution prevention.

He called for greater cooperation to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s blue economy for national development.

Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the water resources and sanitation ministry, Richard Pheelangwah, stressed the need for collaboration to optimise Nigeria’s coastal and inland waters.

He noted that sustainable water resource management would improve livelihoods and foster economic development within coastal communities.

The meeting was also attended by Mr Michael Oloruntola, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, along with directors and senior officials from both ministries. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Senator hails Tinubu for signing Fed. Poly, Rano bill into law
Politics

Senator hails Tinubu for signing Fed. Poly, Rano bill into law

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By Naomi Sharang

The senator representing Kano South Senatorial District, Sen. Sumaila Kawu, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his recent assent to the bill establishing Federal Polytechnic, Rano.

Speaking with newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja, Kawu said that the action would guarantee vocational education in Kano State and the country at large.

“The establishment of the institution was not just victory for our community or zone, but a transformative step for Kano State and Nigeria at large.

“It will provide our youths with access to quality, technical and vocational education.

“It will also equip them with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market,” he said.

According to him, the establishment of the institution will ensure elevation of educational landscape of the country.

Kawu also commended the sponsor of the bill, Rep. Kabiru Rurum, representing Rano/Bunkure/Kibiya Federal Constituency, for his commitment and vision.

“I also commend the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau.

“I also express gratitude to the Speaker of the House of Respresentives, Abbas Tajudeen, and other members of the national assembly for their collective efforts at ensuring the successful passage of the bill,” he said.

Kawu urged the government and people of Kano State to rally round the ‘laudable initiative’.

“Let us unite in our commitment to building a brighter future of Kano South and the entire Nigeria, in accordance with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu,” he said. (NAN)

(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muftau Adediran and ‘Wale Sadeeq

Expert urges action to tackle rising male depression
General News

Expert urges action to tackle rising male depression

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By Akpan Glory

An Environmental activist, Mr Awa Emmanuel has called for greater awareness and stronger support systems to help men cope with the often-overlooked burden of depression.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday, Emmanuel described the rising cases of male depression as a serious concern requiring urgent intervention to safeguard mental well-being.

He emphasised that depression is a silent killer, gradually consuming those who ignore their emotional distress.

“When you don’t eliminate what tries to destroy you, it eventually takes over and consumes you entirely,” he said.

According to him, mood disorders, persistent sadness, and loss of interest in daily activities are becoming more widespread and need immediate attention.

He noted that feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and guilt are increasingly common in today’s fast-paced world, making it crucial to address this crisis.

He explained that men are often expected to appear strong and independent, making it difficult for them to show vulnerability.

This, he said, can lead to self-doubt, low self-esteem, and a sense of failure when their achievements do not meet societal expectations.

“The pressure to succeed, provide for their families, and maintain social status, he added, takes a heavy toll on mental health.

“Society has created a false narrative that equates personal worth with material success.

“When a person is perceived as not doing enough, they are labelled a failure, ignoring the uniqueness of individual life journeys”.

He stressed that each person’s path is different and that a healthy mind is essential to making meaningful contributions to society.

According to him, depression thrives in environments where societal expectations create constant pressure.

He pointed out that family, friends, and colleagues may unintentionally worsen this distress through criticism or unrealistic demands.

“A man who constantly compares himself to wealthier peers invites the silent killer into his thoughts.

“Also, a spouse’s persistent criticism over financial struggles could also heighten vulnerability to depression.

He warned that rising male depression and unresolved distress could lead to substance abuse, isolation, irrational behaviour, and even suicide.

He called for urgent discussions on the issue, stressing the importance of recognising and addressing early signs of depression to prevent serious consequences.

“Newton’s Law of Motion states that an object remains in its state of rest or motion unless acted upon by an external force.

“Similarly, for mental stability, one must avoid environments and associations that trigger distress”.

To combat depression, he advised men to stay positive, find joy in small moments, practise self-care, exercise regularly, and maintain a balanced diet.

These simple yet effective steps, he said, could greatly improve mental well-being and resilience.

He lamented that many men hesitate to seek professional help due to stigma, leading to prolonged suffering.

He stressed that therapy, counselling, and medical support are now more accessible through technology and mental health initiatives.

“Instead of competing, we must collaborate to achieve shared goals in our respective fields,” he said.

He urged men to prioritise their well-being and seek support when needed, warning against allowing societal pressures to dictate their self-worth.

“What you struggle to attain might end up controlling you, robbing you of the contributions you were meant to make in your community,” he said.

He called for a collective effort to foster an environment of understanding and support, emphasising that addressing male depression would lead to healthier, more fulfilling lives for future generations.

NAN reports that the Nigeria Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative (NSRPI) has found that suicide rates in Nigeria are rising, with men being more likely to die by suicide than women.

This is often linked to untreated mental health conditions such as depression, which, in some cases, can lead to suicidal thoughts and actions. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Tosin Kolade

FG awards 113 water contracts, completes 40 in 2024
General News

FG awards 113 water contracts, completes 40 in 2024

431 total views today

By Isaiah Eka

The Federal Government on Thursday said that it awarded 113 water contracts in 2024 and completed 40 of the projects.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, made the remark in his keynote address at the 31st Regular Meeting of the National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation (NCWR&S) in Uyo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the meeting is  “Water and Food Security: Challenges and Opportunities in the Face of Daunting Climate Change”,

He said that the ministry, in line with  Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, leveraged on revolutionising irrigation programme to boost food security in and alleviate poverty.

Utsev said that the ministry had continued to work towards the revitalisation and sustainability of the water supply sub-sector.

He said that it also provided strategic guidance for the effective delivery of water, sanitation and hygiene services across the nation.

The minister said that water supply was included in some significant progress made by the ministry in 2024.

Utsev said that ministry had perfected over 40 different projects across rural, small town and urban areas.

He stated that other achievements included the construction of 44 projects under the Partnership for Expanded Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (PEWASH) programme;

He said that among the project completed were 45 projects under the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme;

Others are implementation of 64 projects funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Inclusive Basic Delivery System for Development and Livelihood Empowerment Improvement Project.

Utsev said that a total of 113 contracts for water supply was awarded which were currently at various stages of construction.

He further said that plans were underway to construct additional dams across the country.

According to him, this is aimed at expanding water storage capacity to address flood and enhance food security through irrigation.

‘’Irrigation is a critical role in food security, economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction,’’ the minister said.

In his  remarks, Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said that the state government would work tirelessly to ensure that citizens enjoyed the initiatives and programmes outlined in the President’s agenda.

He said that tha ARISE Agenda of his administration was aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda of the President Bola Tinubu.

He urged the federal government to reactivate  the abandoned dams in Nkari and Ibiono Ibom in Ini and Ibiono Ibom LGAs respectively.

According to him, these dams, when revitalised, would drive agricultural growth and economic prosperity in the state.

Eno said that government had implemented several initiatives aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate through Flood Mitigation Committee,

“We want to reiterate our administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges of water and food security in the face of climate change.

“We recognise that these challenges required a collective response.

“Together we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for all Nigerians,” he said.

The Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr Sada Soli said the National Assembly was ready to play its role as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He described the theme of the meeting as apt, considering the increasing awareness of the need for sustainable development of water resources for various purposes. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bukola Adetoye/Jane-Frances Oraka

New EU Ambassador outlines plans for Nigeria
Foreign

New EU Ambassador outlines plans for Nigeria

451 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Gautier Mignot, European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has outlined the union’s plans to improve trade, strengthen investment and positively impact the youthful population of Nigeria.

Mignot made the plans known on Wednesday in Lagos at a media luncheon.

He said that the EU would want to partner closely with Nigerian authorities at all levels to know their expectations, strategies and needs.

Mignot also said that the EU would want to know the expectations of  civil societies and Nigerian youths.

He said that the EU was Nigeria’s largest trading and investment partner in 2023, with 28 per cent of its total trade at 35 billion euros.

He said that Nigeria benefitted 10.7 billion euros trade surplus form the EU.

“When it comes to investment, a key priority of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria also its strongest partner in the EU.

“Our Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) stock accounts for about one third of Nigerian FDI, totalling  26.4 billion euros as at 2022.

“There are hundreds of EU companies present in Nigeria and they have strict compliance policies on anti-corruption, environment, labour  local legislation,” he said.

The ambassador said that he was commitment to bringing the EU-Nigeria partnership to a higher level, with the aim  of positively impacting the Nigerian population.

He said that given the current uncertain times and fast-evolving global environment, Nigeria needed constant and faithful partners to count on.

Mignot said that EU took Nigeria as a key partner in Africa and the world; hence, its mission to inform, propose and implement decisions to strengthen the partnership.

“We have a global and strong partnership based on shared values  such as democracy, rule of law and multilateralism.

“EU interest is to see Nigeria consolidate its role as an anchor of stability in Africa, and progress on its path towards a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable future.

“We want to help in this endeavour, with  full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and with humility.

“There is a lack of visibility, and we have to combat disinformation and misperceptions, and the press has a very important role to play in this regard,” he said.

Mignot said  that under the partnership, there would be better structure for economic relations and dialogue to address issues hampering  investment and trade.

Mignot described EU’s Global Gateway Investment as a new strategy aimed at connecting people and accelerating green, digital and inclusive transition in partner-countries such as Nigeria.

According to him, this means leveraging and accelerating investment and to increasingly work in coordination with EU companies to bring concrete benefits to Nigerians.

He said the EU recognised the importance of accelerating Nigeria’s industrialisation and maximising  opportunities for  value addition and job creation.

Mignot revealed that the EU cooperation budget for 2021-2027 amounted to 731 million euros in grants and it was complemented by other instruments.

“With the Global Gateway Investment Strategy, the EU works in sectors crucial for the transformation and diversification of the Nigerian economy such as energy, digital economy, agriculture and food security.

“The EU also invests in human development –  health, education and social protection – as well as in good governance, migration issues and fundamental rights.

“The EU is increasingly developing projects in the north of the country as a whole to respond to the specific development needs of this part of Nigeria.

“The EU is committed to further strengthening engagement in peace and security by responding better to Nigeria’s needs and expectations,” he said.

(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

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