News Agency of Nigeria
Nigerian brands shine at groundbreaking trade fairs in U.S.
Culture & Tourism , Foreign

Nigerian brands shine at groundbreaking trade fairs in U.S.

By Tiamiyu Arobani

Nigerian brands on Saturday lit up New York at the maiden edition of the NaijaBrandChick Trade Fair and Exhibitions.

The event brought together passionate business owners from across Nigeria and buyers from across the U.S. and North America, which affirmed Nigeria’s growing status as a hub for competitive brands.

Speaking at the fair in New York, Nigeria’s Consul-General, Amb. Abubakar Jidda, described the exhibition as a living testament to the wealth and uniqueness of the Nigerian spirit.

“This brands display is to showcase Nigeria’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, her ingenuity, resilience and global ambition of Nigerian brands to the world,” Jidda said.

“I want to thank you for finding time to travel all the way from Nigeria, all over the U.S., Europe and North America to come and display and support NaijaBrandChick to exhibit Nigerian brands that make us look very unique.

“From New York to Houston, NaijaBrandChick has once again proven that when Nigerians dare to dream, the world watches,” he said.

The Consul-General, who personally toured the stalls, applauded the creativity on display, from bold fashion pieces to organic skincare products, authentic Nigerian delicacies and unique homegrown innovations.

Many of the brands are owned by young women and youth-led ventures, which Jidda said was a testament to Nigeria’s dynamic entrepreneurial generation.

He noted that the fair aligned strongly with President Bola Tinubu’s renewed focus on engaging the diaspora as a strategic force in Nigeria’s economic transformation.

“This is what the current administration of President Bola Tinubu has been saying concerning the diaspora community.

“That is why we have in our foreign policy a place for the diaspora. So, it’s important that we, from the Consulate, will always come out to support you,” he said.

The Nigerian envoy emphasised the important role that thriving small businesses play in building prosperous nations.

“Because of people like you, the SMEs, the small businesses that we talk about, if Nigeria can continue like this, I strongly believe businesses will make our economy very, very strong.”

He encouraged Nigerian entrepreneurs to keep pushing boundaries, telling them to “go back and tell the story at home that yes, this is the way forward.

“This is the way that we need to come and showcase our Nigerian brands and what we have to show the world.”

Jidda left the exhibitors with a charge to return in even greater numbers.

“This is the maiden one but we believe that the next edition will be bigger and will need a bigger space. I encourage you to keep the dream alive.”

The vibrant atmosphere at the exhibition venues was filled with colourful stalls, authentic Nigerian music, tasty local delicacies and inspiring business stories.

Amb. Abubakar Jidda and Nelly Agbogu at the NaijaBrandChick Trade Fairs and Exhibitions in New York on Saturday evening.

The trade fair is being powered by NaijaBrandChick, one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Nelly Agbogu, organiser of the trade fair, said the U.S. edition, which held in Houston, Texas and New York, witnessed large turnout of exhibitors and buyers.

She said the event provided “a rare window for the diaspora community and American buyers to experience the diversity, quality and creativity of Nigerian products.

“This ranges from fashion and beauty to food, crafts, technology and lifestyle innovations.”

Many of the exhibitors, mostly young women-led brands, spoke of how NaijaBrandChick has empowered them to expand beyond Nigeria’s borders and compete confidently in the global market.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the fair had held in Houston, Texas from June 27 to 29 and July 5 and 6 in New York. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

BRICS reshaping global economic power — Economist
Foreign

BRICS reshaping global economic power — Economist

 

By Busayo Onijala

Expansion of BRICS highlights its strengthened representation and burgeoning global appeal.

It also signals that a structural shift in the global economic dynamics is quietly underway.

An economist, Alexander Odonkor, made the assertion ahead of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6 and July 7.

Odonkor is a member of the African Finance and Economic Association and Commentator for China Global Television Network.

The 17th BRICS Summit has the theme: “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”.

It will host an expanded grouping of 11 members and 10 partner countries, marking a significant milestone in the history of BRICS.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that BRICS is an inter-governmental organisation originally composed of four members – Brazil, Russia, India and China.

South Africa joined in 2011.

From 2024 to 2025, it admitted six new members – Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, becoming BRICS+.

During the Kazan Summit in Russia in 2024, its leaders approved the establishment of a BRICS partner country category.

One of its objectives is strengthening political, economic and social cooperation among its members while increasing the influence of Global South countries in international governance.

Nigeria became a partner country earlier in 2025, joining Bolivia, Belarus, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

Nigeria will make its debut as a partner country at the Brazil summit with President Bola Tinubu participating in a plenary and delivering an address on the country’s ongoing reforms aimed to reposition it for global competitiveness.

NAN also reports that Tinubu is one of the four African presidents invited to the summit.

The others are presidents of South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia.

For Nigeria and the wider African continent, the expanded BRICS offers new opportunities for trade, investment and development cooperation amid shifting global economic dynamics.

According to Odonkor, the 11 member-countries of BRICS represent more than 40 per cent of the world’s population, 40 per cent of global oil production and exports, and 40 per cent of global trade.

He said for the participating countries, BRICS expansion means a larger market, additional resources, including energy, and huge potential for investment, as the group would seek to deepen cooperation among Global South countries.

“For example, in the area of international trade, a powerful driver of economic development and poverty reduction, cooperation between BRICS members and other developing countries has significantly advanced South-South trade.

 

“Despite the absence of formal trade agreements, BRICS has expanded intra-group trade and reduced dependence on traditional markets, enabling member- countries to tap into one another’s sizable market,” he said.

 

Referring to a 2025 policy brief by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, Odonkor said that, from 2002 to 2021, the total global trade of all BRICS countries grew more than sevenfolds, crossing $4 trillion from $572 billion.

 

He said the group had made significant progress toward forming its own network of complementary supply chains and diversifying trading relationships.

“For non-BRICS developing countries, the rapid intra-group trade between BRICS members, underpinned by its network of supply chains, presents an attractive alternative cooperation to advance the global value chain and create new growth opportunities to support development.”

 

The economist said that beyond trade, cooperation in the group offered an opportunity to attract more investments and collectively contribute to global growth.

 

He noted that in 2023, China was among the world’s top three Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) recipients, while Brazil and India each recorded notable rise in inward direct investment.

According to the economist, this makes BRICS a key driver of FDI growth, especially in emerging markets.

 

“Supported by expanding FDI inflows which facilitate technology transfer and capital inflows and enable member-countries to tackle development-related challenges, including climate change, BRICS has witnessed a marked expansion in its economic influence, becoming a key driver of global growth.

 

“In 2018, BRICS overtook the G7’s share of global GDP in terms of purchasing power parity, and by 2024, the difference further widened.

 

“BRICS accounted for 35 per cent, compared to the G7’s 30 per cent,” he said.

 

NAN reports that at the 2025 BRICS summit, discussions will focus on global health cooperation, trade, investment and finance, climate change, artificial intelligence governance, multilateral peace and security architecture, and institutional development. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Rwanda to enhance trade, aviation ties with Nigeria
Foreign

Rwanda to enhance trade, aviation ties with Nigeria

By Sarafina Christopher

High Commissioner of Rwanda to Nigeria Christophe Bazivamo has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Nigeria in trade, aviation, and information and communication technology (ICT).

Bazivamo made the pledge on Friday in Abuja during the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day also known as Kwibohora themed “The Journey Continues”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the occasion of Kwibohora31, is a significant date that commemorates the end of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

Bazivamo said the collaboration between Rwanda and Nigeria was a catalyst for economic growth and development, adding that it would boost trade and bilateral relations.

“Rwanda is fully committed to collaborating closely with Nigeria to cultivate a thriving economic environment that benefits both our Nations. Trade serves as the heartbeat of any economy.

“By deepening trade connections, we can generate opportunities and enhance the well-being of our citizens,” Bazivamo said.

He also expressed pride in Rwanda’s partnership with Nigeria across various sectors, including trade, aviation, and digital innovation, with the aim of collectively shaping a prosperous Africa.

Bazivamo said that on June 27, Rwanda and Nigeria signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement to eliminate fiscal barriers and unlocking investment opportunities.

He emphasised the significance of the aviation industry in facilitating seamless connectivity between Rwanda and Nigeria and enhancing business activities and tourism.

He highlighted the potential of ICT in driving innovation and economic transformation, emphasising the benefits of investing in ICT partnerships for both nations.

The High Commissioner also underscored Rwanda’s commitment to regional stability, referencing a recent peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He pointed out that Rwanda’s progress in various areas, such as technology, gender equality, and economic growth was due to deliberate choices and a unified national purpose.

Bazivamo said that Rwanda’s Vision 2050 was a strategic framework focused on inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation.

He added that the vision aimed to elevate the country to an upper-middle-income status by 2035 and a high-income, knowledge-based economy by 2050.

He emphasised that this vision was not merely aspirational but rooted in a clear plan designed to benefit every Rwandan citizen.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Vietnamese administrative reform will enhance efficiency- Ambassador
Foreign

Vietnamese administrative reform will enhance efficiency- Ambassador

By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Bui Hung, the Vietnamese Ambassador to Nigeria says his country’s administrative reforms will enhance efficiency within the government and reduce redundancy.

The ambassador stated this during an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

He highlighted the Vietnamese government’s strategy aimed at restructuring its administrative tiers, particularly by merging and reorganising administrative units at provincial and commune levels.

According to him, the initiative follows the adoption of Resolution No. 202/2025/QH15, which officially decreased the number of provincial-level administrative units.

He said that the reduction was from 63 to 34, comprising 28 provinces and 6 centrally-administered cities.

“The restructuring process is imperative for streamlining governance and ensuring that resources are utilised effectively,” Hung stated.

He explained that this plan was not only about reducing numbers but focused on creating more efficient administrative functionalities and improving public service delivery.

He added that as part of the reform effort, existing local government structures are being re-evaluated and refined.

“We aim to establish new commune-level Party Committees and appoint key leadership positions that align with the vision of efficient governance,” he noted.

According to the ambassador, this will enable local authorities to respond more effectively to community needs and enhance overall government responsiveness.

He also underscored the importance of these reforms in the context of economic growth and stability in developing countries.

“By eliminating unnecessary layers of bureaucracy, we can minimise delays and streamline processes that have previously hindered effective governance,” he explained.

The ambassador said that the government had taken deliberate measures to address the various impact of these changes on political stability and leadership continuity.

“Our plans have strong public backing, and we are committed to maintaining continuity of services through established local authority structures throughout the transition.

“We believe that these administrative reforms will yield positive outcomes, ultimately benefiting the Vietnamese people through enhanced governance and an improved public,” he said.

He said that the initiative would further foster collaboration with other developing nations facing similar challenges, particularly in Africa.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for BRICS Summit
Foreign

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for BRICS Summit

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎President Bola Tinubu on Friday night arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to participate in the 17th BRICS Summit.
‎
‎This marks Nigeria’s long awaited debut as a ‘partner country’ at the influential economic gathering
‎
‎According to a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, My Bayo Onanuga, the presidential jet, which departed Saint Lucia earlier in the day, touched down at the the Galeao Air Force Base tarmac at about 8:45 pm (local time).
‎
‎President Tinubu was received by Brazilian officials, including the Secretary for Africa and the Middle East and the Secretary for Innovation and Commerce.
‎
‎The Galeao Air Force Base Commander coordinated the Guard of Honour for President Tinubu.
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‎Brazil’s Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Amb. Carlos Duarte, and the Deputy Minister for Trade Promotion, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Culture, received President Tinubu.
‎
‎President Tinubu is in Brazil at the invitation of President Lula Da Silva.
‎
‎According to the statement, the Nigerian leader will attend a bilateral meeting hosted by President Lula on Saturday, ahead of the summit on June 6 and 7.
‎
‎At the BRICS Summit, the President will participate in a plenary session and deliver an address on Nigeria’s ongoing reforms to reposition the economy for global competitiveness.
‎
‎He will also attract investors to capitalise on the country’s opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy.
‎
‎The summit’s theme is “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” Deliberations will centre on health, Artificial Intelligence, governance, and Climate Change issues.
‎
‎Ahead of the Leaders’ Summit, the political negotiators of BRICS brainstormed over aligning more commitments to combat socially determined diseases, artificial intelligence governance, and climate finance.
‎
‎ Their focus was on providing concrete solutions to the structural challenges faced by the Global South.
‎
‎According to the statement, State Governors participating in the summit with the President are Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger).
‎
‎The Nigerian leader is one of four African presidents invited to the summit, joining counterparts from South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia, the three African nations that hold full BRICS membership.
‎
‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria accepted an invitation to become a partner country in January 2025, following the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia.
‎
‎This partnership allows Nigeria to engage with the bloc’s economic and political initiatives without holding full membership.
‎
‎
‎The BRICS group consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. In 2024-2025, they expanded by adding Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates as full members, and also invited several other countries as partner countries.
‎
‎
‎Nigeria is one of these partner countries, alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
‎
‎Edited by Sadiya Hamza
Tinubu pledges to address diaspora issues
Foreign

Tinubu pledges to address diaspora issues

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has pledged to address the challenges facing Nigerians in Saint Lucia and other parts of the world through diplomatic engagement.

He made the pledge on Wednesday during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian community in Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia.

The event was organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

A statement on the event, issued by Presidential Spokesperson Mr Bayo Onanuga, was released to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.

President Tinubu urged Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to remain law-abiding and serve as good ambassadors of the country.

“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law,” he said.

Drawing from his experience as a student in the U.S. five decades ago, Tinubu emphasised the importance of focus and hard work.

“Life is about working hard, being consistent,” he noted.

Assuring the community of government support, Tinubu stated, “For the professionals living here, our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed.”

He highlighted efforts by his administration to stabilise Nigeria’s economy, saying, “We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we have been able to rescue the economy.”

He also noted improvements in oil revenue management and foreign exchange policy.

Dabiri-Erewa lauded the contributions of Nigerians in Saint Lucia and encouraged them to stay connected to their homeland.

Mr Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), raised concerns about a 2,500 dollars annual work permit fee as one of the challenges faced by the community.

Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest in Saint Lucia, said the large turnout reflected the community’s respect and affection for the President.

Dr Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician and graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, welcomed the President and shared her story of raising two doctors in Saint Lucia.

She added that her husband had since returned to Nigeria, where he now served as Chief Medical Director at a new federal medical centre.

As a token of appreciation, the Nigerian community presented President Tinubu with a portrait made by Doris, a medical student and talented artist.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

U.S.-Nigeria bilateral trade currently stands at bn — Ambassador
Foreign

U.S.-Nigeria bilateral trade currently stands at $13bn — Ambassador

By Mark Longyen

The United States’ Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has announced that bilateral trade between the two countries has soared to about 13 billion dollars since last year.

Mills disclosed this at a dinner organised by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria to mark the country’s 249th independence anniversary on Wednesday night in Abuja.

He said that the spiraling trade relations between the two nations has fostered not only economic opportunities for Nigerians but has also created jobs for Americans and Nigerians alike.

“I am very proud that last year our trade with Nigeria soared to nearly $13 billion.

“That has fostered economic opportunities for Nigerians and created jobs for Americans and Nigerians alike.

“By stimulating trade we are building a future where both nations are going to thrive as commercial partners,” he said.

The U.S. envoy said that his country’s partnership with Nigeria would continue to evolve, adding that the partnership was currently being anchored on a commitment to shared prosperity.

He explained that this commitment entailed increasing commerce and trade between the U.S. and Nigeria, and increasing opportunities for workers in both countries.

Mills said the event was to celebrate the U.S.’ shared values of freedom, democracy and rule of law, and bid farewell to the departing staff of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

According to him, their tireless efforts transformed lives, adding that they delivered critical health and education programmes, and empowered Nigerians with hope and opportunity to make the world a better place.

“As USAID’s work concludes at the mission, let me assure all of you, especially our Nigerian friends, the life-saving programmes we have built together will continue, sustained through our partnership with Nigeria,” he said.

Speaking in an interview later, the ambassador stressed that the primary focus of U.S. diplomacy with Nigeria had currently shifted to developing commercial and trade relationships.

He said that it was in line with this commitment that the U.S. recently unveiled the Commerce and Investment Partnership (CIP) with Nigeria’s Ministry of Trade, which he called one of the biggest events.

“We call it CIP, and it brings together Nigerian companies and U.S. companies into the same room with very senior U.S. and Nigerian officials.

“They’re going to tell us, here’s what you as governments need to do to make it easier to do business and trade for American companies in Nigeria and for Nigerian companies in the U.S.

“That’s a big initiative, and I think it’ll really help develop business and trade over the next, I hope, next year or two,” Mills noted.

Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, noted that Nigeria and the U.S. had weathered diverse challenges in their respective journeys of nationhood, adding that both countries shared strong bilateral relations.

Tuggar, represented by Dr Dunoma Ahmed, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, said the two countries share an impressive diversity within their borders, making them global reference points for innovation, resilience, inclusion, and influence.

He said that while the U.S. stands as one of the world’s largest democracies, Nigeria proudly holds that place on the African continent.

The minister said that these realities influenced the foreign policy direction of President Bola Tinubu, which places strong emphasis on the pillars of democracy, given Nigeria’s unique position in African and global affairs.

“We have each navigated complex terrains to build remarkable societies that seek to give voice and opportunity to all citizens.

“Today, as we celebrate the independence of the United States, we also celebrate the shared resilience of our two nations.

“In our unwavering commitment to overcoming challenges together, Nigeria’s strategic role, both in Africa and on the global stage, continues to serve as the cornerstone of our bilateral relationship with the United States,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was graced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Niger State Gov. Mohammed Bago, Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, Humanitarian Affairs Minister, Dr Nentawe Yilwatda, members of the diplomatic corps, among others.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Nigeria, Saint Lucia sign manpower assistance deal
Foreign

Nigeria, Saint Lucia sign manpower assistance deal

‎‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎Nigeria and Saint Lucia have signed a Technical Manpower Assistance (TMA) agreement to deploy skilled Nigerian professionals to the Caribbean nation.

 

A statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday said the pact aims to deepen South-South cooperation between the two countries.

 

The agreement was signed in Castries by Yusuf Yakub, Director-General of Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps, and Janelle Modeste-Stephen, Saint Lucia’s Acting Permanent Secretary.

 

Yakub described the agreement as “a great achievement” and a major step toward President Bola Tinubu’s vision of strengthened regional and bilateral partnerships.

 

“This is an outstanding achievement, just days after President Tinubu’s directive to deploy technical aid to Saint Lucia and the wider OECS,” he stated.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria also deployed four Technical Aid Corps (TAC) specialist nurses to Jamaica on Wednesday.

 

Yakub explained that the TMA deal enables Nigeria to send teachers, doctors, agriculturalists, and other professionals for two-year volunteer service.

 

He said the Nigerian government will cover allowances and logistics, while the host countries will provide accommodation and local support.

 

“These students who benefit from scholarships can reconnect with their heritage and cultural roots,” Yakub added.

 

He noted that since May 2023, over 300 Nigerian professionals have been deployed across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific under the revitalised TAC scheme.

 

“Since my appointment in August, we’ve deployed volunteers to Liberia, Sierra Leone, Jamaica, and other African countries.

 

“This programme was nearly dormant, but Mr President revived it through his proactive foreign policy direction.

 

“We are now sending more volunteers to Jamaica. Some are already there, and others will depart from Abuja tomorrow,” Yakub said.

 

Yakub added that four nurses will leave for Jamaica, while six medical doctors are scheduled to depart for Grenada on July 9.

 

He also disclosed ongoing talks with Belize, the Dominican Republic, and the OECS Director-General on a regional technical assistance framework.

 

“One Nigerian volunteer introduced Adire fabric in Jamaica. It became so popular, locals now produce and export it as Jadire,” Yakub revealed.

 

Beyond diplomacy, Yakub said the TAC programme is evolving into a revenue-generating venture due to growing international demand.

 

He stated that Jamaica has requested 400 Nigerian professionals and is ready to fund their deployment, moving away from Asian labour.

 

“We are exporting Nigeria’s human capital with dignity, boosting opportunities, and asserting leadership in the Global South,” he affirmed.

 

Yakub stressed that the TAC aligns with Tinubu’s 4D foreign policy: Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography.

 

The programme, he said, strengthens Nigeria’s global presence, supports professional growth, and builds ties with historically connected nations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
FG deploys nurses to Jamaica to bridge professional, education
Foreign

FG deploys nurses to Jamaica to bridge professional, education

By Maureen Okon

The Federal Government (FG) on Wednesday deployed four Technical Aid Volunteers (TAC) Specialist Nurses to Jamaica as a soft power diplomacy to bridge both the educational and professional gaps.

The orientation and deployment exercise was organised for the volunteers by the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) in Abuja.

Dr Yusuf Yakub, the Director-General (DG) of NTAC, said that it was a proud moment in the history of Nigeria’s traditional cooperation in the people-people diplomacy.

Yakub, represented by Ambassador Saidu Mohammed, the Deputy Director of Admin, said that since the establishment in 1987, NTAC had stood as a shining example of what purposeful South-South cooperation could achieve.

“This moment is not only the culmination of months of planning, coordination, and dedication, it is a process which began last year.

“It is a testament to Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to sharing knowledge, skills and expertise with our brothers and sisters across the world.

“Through this unique programme, Nigeria has continued to deploy her best and brightest professionals to countries that require technical support, thereby strengthening institutions, building local capacity, and fostering enduring bonds of friendships.

“Today’s deployment is particularly significant because it involves our healthcare professionals of specialist nurses and nurse educators who represent the backbone of any resilient healthcare system,” he said.

According to him, the mission to Jamaica will support the delivery of essential health services and also mentor local healthcare personnel, thereby building capacity that will benefit communities for years to come.

He urged the volunteers to carry themselves as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria, as they were not only selected as professionals but for their dedication, compassion and readiness to serve humanity beyond borders.

Amb. Zakari Usman, the Director of Programmes for NTAC, urged the volunteers to embrace the experience fully and to serve with dedication, humility, and integrity.

Usman, represented by Fehintola Adebowale, the Assistant Director, Programmes, urged the TAC volunteers to be respectful of local customs and cultures.

He urged the volunteers to be mindful of their actions and contributions which would not only reflect on them but on Nigeria as a whole.

Dr Chukwu Ndu, a Psychiatric Nursing Consultant and the Team Lead of the TAC volunteers, said that his team would serve as worthy ambassadors in their host community.

Ms Alu David, a Public Health Nurse, Midwife and a Nurse Educator, said that it was a dream come true as the process has been long and tedious.

“This is really a rare opportunity for me, that I will not take for granted and I hope to make Nigeria proud and above all make my dear profession proud in the host community.”

Dr Umar Jubril, a Nursing Educator, said that the team would not let the agency down.

Jubril lauded the Federal Government for sustaining the programme for over 38 years. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Pan-African unity will advance black race – Tinubu ‎
Foreign

Pan-African unity will advance black race – Tinubu ‎

By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎President Bola Tinubu has called on Africans and people of African descent worldwide to unite in building a future of “promise, honour and dignity for the black race.”
‎
‎The President made the call during a dinner hosted in his honour by Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, on Tuesday night in Castries.
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‎A statement on the event, issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, was made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja
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‎According to Onanuga, the President urged Africans in the Diaspora to harness technology and innovation to drive meaningful social progress.
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‎”It’s not the fault of our forebears that we find ourselves dispersed.
“We can work together, be together, enjoy what we have, and build a future of promise, honour, and dignity for the Black race.”
‎
‎”I’m unapologetically Afrocentric in my belief. I’ve travelled far and wide, and no one is as industrious, determined and focused as the black people worldwide.l
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‎”The challenge is ours, and we meet those challenges as we strive to give our kith and kin a better life,” Tinubu said.
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‎He stressed the importance of synergy among Africans, nations and those in the Diaspora, especially through technology and industrialisation.
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‎”All I can promise you, as a man from the largest Black nation in the world, is that we will work hard.
“One out of every five Black nationals is a Nigerian.”
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‎”Industrialisation and technology are making life easier, and we have to work together to make our people proud today, tomorrow and thereafter,” he said.
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‎Prime Minister Pierre congratulated Tinubu on receiving the Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL) during his state visit.
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‎”This honour is very well deserved. This honour is reserved for someone who has rendered exceptional service of national importance to St. Lucia.”
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‎”Our engagement with you over the past few days convinced us you deserve that honour.”
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‎”May you cherish it as much as we cherish your presence, and may it bring you fond memories of your historic visit to St. Lucia, the Eastern Caribbean, and the OECS as a whole,” he said.
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‎Pierre also welcomed members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia and praised their integration into local society.
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‎He highlighted the deep ties between both nations, citing Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who became Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.
‎
‎”We keep repeating that story because we are proud of it, because the story must be told and passed on to succeeding generations,” he added.
‎
‎According to the statement, members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, some residents for over 30 years, attended the dinner.
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‎At the end of the event, President Tinubu invited them for a meet-and-greet, offering handshakes and words of encouragement. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
‎
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
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