NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FDI crucial to Nigeria, Indonesia economic growth, says ambassador
Foreign

FDI crucial to Nigeria, Indonesia economic growth, says ambassador

459 total views today

By Mark Longyen

Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Dr Usra Harahap, says deepening bilateral relations between both countries to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is critical to engendering their future economic growth.

Harahap gave this insight in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

According to the ambassador, it is for this reason that he explored  numerous investment opportunities for both Nigerian and Indonesian businessmen for the past five years and nine months.

Harahap said he made specific efforts to encourage Indonesian businessmen to invest in Nigeria, and vice versa, with significant achievements in this regard.

He affirmed that such investments include agricultural inputs, coal-based fertiliser, manufacturing, bilateral trading deals, artificial insemination of livestock, fishery technology programmes, cultural relations, education, and technology transfer.

The envoy disclosed that the bilateral trade between Nigeria and Indonesia recently witnessed an impressive growth of about 80 per cent, that is, about four billion dollars in volume.

“Investment opportunities will help towards promoting the future of Nigeria-Indonesia relations.

“Indonesia and Nigeria must set an even higher ambition in our bilateral cooperation.

“You know, we know, that not only me and not only Indonesia, but the whole world knows that Nigeria is a huge market,” he said.

Amb. Harahap said that the Indonesian embassy and  government had taken some deliberate steps toward facilitating investment opportunities from businessmen across both sides.

For instance, he said the Indonesian government decided to ease the visa process for Nigerian businessmen, who are interested in attending their annual Trade Expos.

“We encourage the businessmen to come together, to visit each other, to have business meetings, and so on.

“So, during my tenure of duty, I’ve tried to encourage these by solving, especially the problem of visa.

“Every time we have a big event in Indonesia, we encourage the Indonesian Immigration to make the visa easier because we present the ambassador as a guarantor,” he said.

The ambassador said that he also encouraged business-to-business contact among the businessmen.

“I open my telephone number to call the businessmen who already know me. They come to me, and explain what they need to connect with Indonesian businessmen. I just facilitate. No problem.

“I will just call Indonesia to tell them that somebody would like to do business with them. What do you have? What do you need? And what is your preparation for that?

“And, finally, we just make the communication by Zoom meeting. It’s our system. Every Zoom meeting, I already make a conclusion. Oh, this Zoom meeting is very fruitful and flourish. Let’s start.

“We also have the WhatsApp group chat. And after that is done, they try to communicate. Finally, one of them will visit Nigeria or the Nigerian will visit Indonesia for factory visit,” he said.

The Indonesian envoy added that, as a result of such deliberate efforts, more than 170 Nigerian entrepreneurs travelled to the Southeast Asia and Oceania region in 2024 to explore the huge investment opportunities available there. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Indonesia, Nigeria deepening defence, counter-terrorism collaboration — Envoy
Foreign

Indonesia, Nigeria deepening defence, counter-terrorism collaboration — Envoy

496 total views today

By Mark Longyen

Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Usra Harahap, says both countries share similar defence and security experiences and interests, and are working closely to deepen collaboration against terrorism.

The ambassador, a retired Air Vice Marshal in the Indonesian military, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

Harahap stated that during his six-year tenure in Nigeria and ECOWAS, he had utilised his military experience to strengthen Indonesia’s diplomatic-military engagements in the subregion.

According to him, his concurrent accreditation as ambassador to ECOWAS enabled him to engage with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, particularly during their threat to withdraw from the regional bloc.

“The development of relations between the two countries is very dynamic. In various fields, relations between governments are getting better.

“As you know, I have a military background. But, you know, a military background does not mean I’m not able to do a diplomatic job because diplomatic action is a kind of war without a weapon.

“We come here to share experience because we know Nigeria has a lot of experience in solving the problem of terrorism through counter-terrorism. And also, Indonesia, we have plenty of experience in that,” he said.

The envoy revealed that, in line with the military cooperation between Indonesia and Nigeria, he had facilitated the training of young Nigerian military officers at Indonesia’s defence university on scholarships.

“Some of them have already graduated. Some of them are still undergoing the same,” he said.

The outgoing ambassador disclosed that one of his greatest achievements and legacies was his strategic diplomatic engagements in Nigeria and the entire ECOWAS subregion to curb the surge of terrorism.

“We tried to stop the escalation of terrorism through diplomatic efforts. Diplomacy is very effective in making the situation not escalate,” he said.

Harahap, the longest-serving Indonesian ambassador to Nigeria, said he was leaving behind a legacy of substantial growth and continuity in Indonesia-Nigeria diplomatic relations for his successors to build upon.

“Indonesia is a big country, Nigeria is a big country. It’s our duty to drive growth between both countries to solve challenges.

“We need to have a strong commitment to build our relationship with Nigeria and other accredited countries; a strong commitment to complement each other,” he said.

The envoy added that he would miss certain Nigerian dishes, which he had come to love during his stay in the country, particularly suya — roasted beef garnished with local spices.

NAN reports that Nigeria is Indonesia’s second-largest trade partner in Africa after South Africa, with current trade volume between the two nations reaching about four billion dollars. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Nigeria, France, others not sponsoring terrorism against Niger- ECOWAS
Foreign

Nigeria, France, others not sponsoring terrorism against Niger- ECOWAS

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By Mark Longyen

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has refuted claims by Niger Republic that Nigeria and some ECOWAS member states were colluding with France to sponsor terrorism against the country.

ECOWAS made this known in a statement issued by its spokesman, Joël Ahofodji, describing  the allegations by Niger as “unfounded and unsubstantiated.”

The News Agency of Nigeria ((NAN) reports that Niger Republic’s military rulers had accused Nigeria and some West African countries of colluding with France to engage in terrorism acts against their country.

While dismissing the Sahel country’s allegations as unfounded and unsubstantiated, ECOWAS emphasised that it was solidly behind Nigeria and the accused member states.

“The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expresses deep concern over allegations made against Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states.

“The Commission stands firmly by Nigeria and ECOWAS member states against the allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism.

“For years, Nigeria has supported peace and security of several countries, not only in the West African sub region but also on the African continent,” it said.

According to ECOWAS, recent successes recorded by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads, demonstrate the country’s commitment to peace and security across the region.

“ECOWAS, therefore, refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism,” it added.

The Commission further urged all ECOWAS member states to refrain from making accusations that are not supported by any evidence, and instead promote subregional dialogue and stability.

It would be recalled that the Federal Government had on Thursday similarly denied the same allegations made by Niger.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the allegations, made by Niger’s military leader, Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, were false and a figment of his imagination.

“These claims exist solely in the realm of imagination.

“Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance, overt or covert, with France or any other country to destabilise Niger Republic,” Idris had said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited  by Halima Sheji

Stakeholders seek review of gender policies on agricultural export
Agriculture

Stakeholders seek review of gender policies on agricultural export

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By Felicia Imohimi

The Farmers Aggregators Initiative of Nigeria (FAIN), an NGO, and other stakeholders have called for a comprehensive review of existing gender policies and laws on agricultural export.

They made the call at a summit on Mainstreaming Gender in Agriculture organised by FAIN  in Abuja.

The theme of the summit is “Mainstreaming Gender into the Agricultural Sector for Women and Youth Empowerment: Developing a Roadmap for Understanding Gender Policy and Export Trade in Line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).’’

Mr Cornelius Agenyi, Chief Executive Officer, FAIN, said the summit was aimed at enhancing gender mainstreaming within agriculture by promoting the active participation of women and youths, addressing vital sectoral issues and contributing to the fight against food insecurity.

Agenyi called for the collaboration of government, international organisations and private sector to ensure that gender-sensitive policies were not just in place but effectively implemented.

He specifically urged them to prioritise land rights, access to finance and equal representation in leadership roles.

According to him, the summit will also provide a platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing experiences and discussing best practices.

He said that FAIN was committed to empowering women and youth through modern agricultural practices that fostered sustainable livelihoods, thereby aligning with SDGs 1, 2 and 5.

Agenyi said that the initiative collaborated with more than 41 MDAs and government agencies and was endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security as well as the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

“Mainstreaming gender was more than just a policy, but a mindset, an approach that seeks to remove barriers and create an environment where both women and men could contribute equitably to agricultural development.

“Incorporating gender perspectives in agricultural business is not only a matter of justice; it is a strategic economic move.

“Studies have shown that when women have equal access to resources; they invest their earnings in their families, communities and economy, fostering greater growth and development.

“By empowering women in agriculture, we unlock untapped potential that drives productivity, innovation and sustainable development,” he said.

Col. Abdulmumini Aminu(retired), Chairman, Board of Trustees, FAIN, called for decisive actions towards visible support for Nigerian women to succeed in agricultural sector.

Aminu, who was represented by Mrs Modupe Jemibewon, Secretary to the board, identified funding as a major challenge to efforts in boosting women farmers’ participation in agriculture.

He, however, urged President Bola Tinubu to take up the challenge of maintaining gender into agricultural business in line with the renewed hope agenda.

Mrs Folashade Joseph, Managing Director, Nigeria Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC), identified women as indispensable to achieving food security, yet their potential remained underutilised due to systemic barriers.

According to her, empowering women societies can only be achieved by improving food security and addressing broader goals of poverty reduction, gender equality and sustainable development.

She listed some objective areas towards SDGs as improved or enhanced stakeholders understanding of gender policies and their impact on agriculture and export trade as well as promoting gender equality and increased women participation.

Joseph, however, said there was need to conduct a comprehensive review of existing gender policies and laws relating to agriculture and trade.

“In viewing gender policy, there is need for stakeholders’ engagement including government officials, farmers, exporters, women and youth to raise awareness and gather input; to provide tracing and capacity building programmes for stakeholders on gender sensitive agriculture and export trade practices,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

NIHSA strengthens water management framework
Environment

NIHSA strengthens water management framework

664 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving water resource management through strategic policies and programmes.

The agency’s Director-General, Umar Mohammed, made this commitment at a workshop on Monday in Abuja.

The workshop was to validate the draft regional Strategic Action Plan (SAP) for the Niger Basin and the Iullemeden-Taoudeni/Tanezrouft Aquifer Systems (NB-ITTAS).

Mohammed stated the workshop’s importance in educating stakeholders about improving the management, governance, conservation, and protection of water resources.

“Strengthening water resource management frameworks and institutions in the region will significantly enhance the livelihoods of citizens, ” he said.

The NIHSA D-G emphasised the need to boost water resource availability by improving groundwater recharge systems and enhancing existing groundwater extraction facilities.

He also stressed the importance of raising awareness among local stakeholders and building their capacity for the sustainable management and protection of water resources.

“It is essential to ensure that local stakeholders are informed about these issues and equipped to improve water resource management and protection.

“Water resources must be managed efficiently and adaptively by implementing economically viable agricultural practices resilient to climate change,” Muhammed said.

He further said that NIHSA’s capacity was being strengthened for effective quantitative and qualitative monitoring of the region’s water resources.

Prof. Tiegaan Amada, Regional Consultant for the NB-ITTAS Strategic Action Plan, said that the workshop aimed to identify and address gaps in existing water resource policies.

He said that the initiative integrated the management of surface water, groundwater, and related ecosystems to improve water security for the population.

“By analysing policy gaps, this initiative creates an opportunity to introduce strategies that promote the joint management of surface and groundwater resources and associated ecosystems,” Amada said.

The Director of Hydrogeophysics at NIHSA, Mr Stephen Jabo, announced plans to establish an institutional body to manage the shared water resources of the participating countries.

Jabo highlighted the importance of regional collaboration, especially in the Sahelian regions where water scarcity is a critical issue.

“A mechanism will be established to govern and manage shared water resources, encompassing both surface and groundwater systems.

“For Sahelian regions facing acute water scarcity, it is vital for the countries involved to collaborate effectively to manage these limited resources,” he said.

He identified six participating countries; Nigeria, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Benin, and Mauritania,  that are expected to foster regional cooperation for the NB-ITTAS Aquifer System.

Jabo said that each country was dedicated to building a strong knowledge base for shared water resources.

He said that they were also establishing governance frameworks to ensure equitable and sustainable management for current and future generations.

“This workshop aims to facilitate collective commitment among these nations to equitable sharing and sustainable management of joint water resources, benefiting both current and future generations,” he said ”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahma

Repositioning VON for greater global impact
Features

Repositioning VON for greater global impact

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A News Analysis by Mark Longyen, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

For the first time in 14 years, the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Nigeria’s sole external radio broadcaster, recently held a strategic management retreat.

The landmark event, with the theme: “VON in the 21st Century: Restrategising for Global Impact,” was spearheaded by its Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Malam Jibrin Ndace.

The event was organised to reflect Ndace’s strategic vision and drive as well as to reflect on the agency’s achievements over the years, realign its strategic priorities, and reposition it as a leader in contemporary global broadcasting.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, who was the chairman of the occasion, while declaring the event open, described 2025 as a critical year for consolidating President Tinubu’s socio-economic and political reforms.

He underscored VON’s role in amplifying the administration’s achievements and fostering global awareness of Nigeria’s developmental strides under President Tinubu.

Idris urged VON to positively project the key achievements of the administration, such as fiscal reforms; empowering state and local governments; progress in the war on terrorism; and providing education loans for Nigerian youth, globally.

“There’s no doubt that 2025 will consolidate Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is already yielding significant progress across various facets of our national life.

“The Voice of Nigeria must tell the world that Nigeria is working again.

“We are winning the war on terrorism, banditry, and ethnic conflicts.

“We are providing education loans for our youth and transitioning to sustainable energy solutions,” Idris emphasised.

The minister also stressed the importance of combating fake news, adopting innovative digital technologies, and strengthening Nigeria’s image as a regional and global powerhouse.

Idris commended Ndace for his exemplary leadership, adding that VON was becoming a driving force in showcasing Nigeria’s progress.

He also lauded VON’s dedication to promoting Nigeria’s culture, policies, and achievements to a global audience, especially in the 21st Century.

In his opening remarks, Ndace described the retreat as “a transformative milestone in VON’s history.”

He underscored the importance of innovation, collaboration, and strategic planning, stressing that the event was critical in revitalising VON’s mandate of amplifying Nigeria’s voice on the global stage

Ndace expressed his deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and trust in VON’s leadership.

According to him, the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda has inspired the agency’s mission to showcase Nigeria’s progress and leadership across Africa.

He also lauded the Minister of Information and National Orientation for his pivotal role in reshaping VON’s strategic focus.

Ndace appreciated the National Assembly, fellow heads of sister media agencies, including the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), National Orientation Agency (NOA), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), for their unwavering support.

He also outlined his vision for VON, saying it is built on three key pillars – People, Platform, and Partnerships.

On the first pillar, which is the people, he described the workforce as the heartbeat of VON and pledged to foster collaboration, inclusivity, and professional growth.

Recognising the role of younger audiences, he reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to engaging youth and integrating their perspectives into national and global conversations.

On the second pillar, which is platform, the DG stressed the need to modernise, and highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen VON’s digital presence and upgrade its broadcasting infrastructure.

This, he said, would enable the agency to deliver high-quality and impactful content to a diverse global audience.

On strategic partnerships, Ndace celebrated VON’s recent collaborations with key stakeholders, such as the Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) and the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM).

“These partnerships are instrumental to enriching VON’s programming, expanding its reach, and promoting Nigeria’s soft power globally,” the DG said.

Ndace further emphasised VON’s commitment to inclusivity through the production of multilingual content, which reflects Nigeria’s rich diversity.

He said that this was the reason for VON’s recent strategic collaborations with the Ministry of Solid Minerals, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), among others.

“This is in line with our restrategising efforts to ensure that all Nigerians, regardless of language or location, are connected to the nation’s progress, and for VON to make global impact in the 21st century,” he said.

While stressing the critical role of strategic innovation, Ndace challenged stakeholders to contribute ideas to reposition VON for greater global relevance.

“This retreat marks a new chapter for VON, and together, we will achieve our vision of becoming a leading voice for Nigeria and Africa.

“There is the need for us to leverage cutting-edge technology, enhance digital content delivery, and amplify narratives that project Nigeria and Africa positively.

“This retreat is a call to action for all of us to reimagine VON’s future and reaffirm its position as a pillar of Nigeria’s soft power,” he said.

Ndace expressed confidence that the insights gained from the retreat would set VON on a renewed path toward greater global relevance and impact.

“This retreat reaffirms VON’s commitment to its mandate of providing a strategic framework to enhance its role as Nigeria’s external broadcaster and project the nation’s success stories to international audiences,” Ndace said. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

‘Prioritise health and safety this festive season’– NACA
Health

‘Prioritise health and safety this festive season’– NACA

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By Justina Auta

Dr Temitope Ilori, Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), has called on Nigerians to prioritise their health by knowing their HIV status, especially as the holiday season approaches.

In a statement on Sunday in Abuja, Ilori urged Nigerians to make use of the free and confidential HIV testing services available across the country.

She stated that while HIV remains a significant public health issue, advancements in testing and treatment have made it manageable and no longer a death sentence.

“Early diagnosis ensures access to life-saving medication and improves the chances of living a healthier and longer life.

“We understand that the festive season comes with increased social activities. While celebrating, let us remember the importance of safe practices.

“Use protection during sexual activities, and for those who choose abstinence, continue to uphold it as the safest option,” she said.

Ilori also noted that ignorance is no longer an excuse, given the widespread availability of HIV testing and education, which provide individuals with the tools to make informed choices.

She reaffirmed NACA’s commitment to reducing HIV transmission and achieving an AIDS-free Nigeria.

“This festive season, give yourself the gift of health by visiting the nearest health facility or community testing centre to know your HIV status.

“Let us work together to create a healthier, happier Nigeria,” she said.(NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Christmas: Cleric urges Nigerians to show love
Religious

Christmas: Cleric urges Nigerians to show love

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By Taiye Agbaje

Pastor Kayode Aliyu of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, Daki-Biyu District, Kubwa, Abuja, has urged Nigerians to show love to one another, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences, during the Christmas celebration.

Aliyu made the call while delivering a sermon titled ‘The Greatest Gift’ at this year’s Nine Lessons and Christmas Carol Service in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2024 Carol Service, drawn from the Book of Isaiah 61:7, had the theme: ‘Double Glory’.

According to the clergyman, the greatest gift at any time is love.

“We are looking at the love of God expressed at Christmas.

“John 3:16 says, ‘For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son’”.

Aliyu explained that God’s display of love is unconditional, urging everyone to emulate this gesture.

“God’s love is not a relationship of give and take. He only seeks a relationship of father and son.

“Jesus Christ gave us two instructions: love your God with everything you have, and love your neighbours as yourself.

“If you don’t love your neighbours, it means you don’t love God.

“So, we are challenged this Christmas Carol year, 2024, to love one another,” he said.

Pastor Ibijoke Ogundipe, the wife of the Senior Pastor of the church, also encouraged women to share love.

“I call on women, as the bedrock of society, to gather everyone around them and share love. This will help us progress as a nation,” she said.

Apostle Seun Sodipe, Secretary of the Carol Steering Committee, called on Christians to partake in the blessings God has bestowed upon mankind.

“This should not be limited to financial and material terms but also include kind words and gestures.

“We never know what the next person is going through. A kind word or gesture can go a long way in making someone feel loved”.

NAN reports that there were various Christmas song renditions by the Peculiar Choir and the children’s choir of the church.

Prayers were also offered for the church, Nigeria, and its leaders. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

U-Save foundation donates solar borehole to FCT community
Environment

U-Save foundation donates solar borehole to FCT community

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By Akpan Glory

U-Save Foundation, an NGO has unveiled a solar-powered borehole to improve Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in Area E community Nyanya, a satellite town in the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the commissioning on Saturday, the Executive Director of the foundation, Uju Rochas-Anwuka said the project aims to provide residents with access to clean water.

She also emphasised the importance of educating the community on basic hygiene and sanitation, stressing that these are vital for fostering healthier lives and stronger communities.

Rochas-Anwuka further noted that the community was chosen for the intervention following rigorous evaluations, meeting the criteria to qualify for the initiative.

Olu-Daniels Ibiyemi, Director IV of Water Quality Control and Sanitation at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, commended the foundation for its commitment to sustainable development.

He highlighted the organisation’s role in advancing the national water strategy by employing renewable energy to enhance water access.

Ibiyemi assured that the Ministry would continue to collaborate with stakeholders, including non-governmental organisations, to develop solutions that ensure all Nigerians have access to safe and clean water.

He described the project as an important step towards building a more resilient and water-secure future for the country.

Paul Akawu, Youth Leader of Pyape and representative of the District Head of Nyanya, expressed appreciation for the borehole, urging the community to take responsibility for its maintenance.

He encouraged residents to contribute a token towards its upkeep to ensure its sustainable use.

Similarly, Asabe Sani, a community leader in Area E, Nyanya, thanked the foundation for providing access to safe and clean water.

She said that the intervention had significantly reduced their struggles, as they previously had to walk several kilometres to fetch clean water.

Sani expressed hope for continued support from the foundation to address other pressing needs in the community.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the foundation is dedicated to creating a healthy and resilient society transformed by sustainable WASH practices, alongside climate change adaptation measures.

According to the World Health Organisation, approximately 2.2 billion people lack safe drinking water, while 4.2 billion lack adequate sanitation, leaving one in three people without these basic human rights. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Tosin Kolade

NBS commits to sustained collaboration with media, CSOs
Economy/Business

NBS commits to sustained collaboration with media, CSOs

485 total views today

By Okeoghene Akubuike

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says it is committed to sustained collaboration with the media and civil society for effective communication of statistical data.

Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician-General of the Federation and CEO of the NBS said this at a Retreat for Journalists and Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) in Keffi on Friday.

Adeniran, who was represented by Dr Biyi Fafunmi, Director, Agric and Business Enterprise, NBS, said the media and CSOs played an indispensable role in national statistics production.

He said the media and CSOs served as a bridge between statistical agencies and the public.

Adeniran said the media served as both facilitators and disseminators, influencing the way statistical information was collected, interpreted, and communicated to the public.

“In reporting, we recognise you as a partner in progress; we urge you to be objective and patriotic in reporting our data as disseminated by NBS.

“By facilitating communication, promoting understanding, and fostering accountability, the media not only enhance the credibility and relevance of national statistics but also empower citizens to appraise more meaningfully with the data that shape their lives.

“As technology and media landscapes continue to evolve, the role of media in this context will continue to expand.

“This will require ongoing collaboration between NBS, the media, and innovation to ensure effective communication of statistical data for planning and development on sustainable bases”.

Adeniran commended the media and CSOs for their role in making NBS improve in data deliverables in spite of the challenges they encountered in their daily endeavours.

Mr Joel Ichedi, the Bureau’s Director of Communication and Public Relations, said the objective of the retreat was to equip journalists and CSOs with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate statistics to the public.

“We recognise that the media and civil society play a critical role in shaping public discourse and holding institutions accountable.

“However, we also acknowledge that reporting on statistics can be complex and nuanced.

“This retreat aims to bridge the gap between data producers and data users, ensuring that statistical information is accurately conveyed to the public.

”Our team of experts will provide insights into the latest developments in statistics production, data sources, and methodologies”.

Ichedi emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure statistical information was presented concisely and without bias, thus avoiding misinformation and enhancing public understanding.

Ewache Ajefu, Editor, Business Africa who spoke on behalf of the media, thanked the NBS for organising the retreat, adding that it should be sustained.

Johnny Emmanuel, National President, National Council for CSOs,  commended the NBS on its role in improving the economy and the country through its production of accurate and timely data.

Emmanuel stressed the need for collaboration between the media and civil society noting that CSOs could not achieve their mandate without the media.

NAN reports that there was a business session on Trends in  Development Journalism, Consumer Price Index and GDP Rebasing Update, and Compilation of Trade Statistics.

Other sessions include Methodology for Generating Labor Force Statistics in NBS and A Critical Appraisal of Statistical Reporting and Data Interpretation by Journalists. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

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