NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
UNDP partners FG to advance democratic governance in W-Africa
Foreign

UNDP partners FG to advance democratic governance in W-Africa

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By Fortune Abang

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, says it is committed to working with the Federal Government of Nigeria for effective implementation of Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD) across West Africa.

Ms Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative, Nigeria, said this during a High-Level briefing with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, on RPD programme on Monday in Abuja.

Attafuah restated the UNDP’s support for effective implementation of the RPD, adding that the partnership was not only timely but necessary.

She said that RPD provided the platform for context-specific and African-led responses to the region’s democratic challenges as a homegrown initiative.

“UNDP will support the RDP programme implementation through provisions of technical assistance, strengthening of institutional capacity, research-informed policy development and monitoring and evaluation.

“This is a value-based commitment to strengthen our democratic culture, build civic trust and enhance delivery in public institutions. Our objective is to strengthen the governance systems.

 “We are hoping for business growth and to showcase this initiative, which is good, practical and people centered,” Attafuah said.

Earlier, Tuggar underscored the need to align national strategies with regional frameworks.

He said it would ensure sustainable governance outcomes and tackle challenges faced in the sub-region and Africa at large.

The minister described RDP as a flagship expression of Nigeria’s commitment to prioritising promotion of democratic values, constitutional order and Rule of Law in the region.

“This is essential in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive civic participation and evolution of civil society in Africa different from others.

“It will foster a resilient governance system that reflects current realities and bolster the in-house technical working group to achieve more.

“Democracy cannot thrive without truth; there is danger posed by misinformation, disinformation and unchecked influence of social media. When truth becomes blurred, democracy itself comes under threat.

“The institutions we often criticize for being weak are the very institutions we rely on to safeguard democracy. Strengthening democratic institutions is not optional but very essential,” Tuggar said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that RPD is a strategic initiative jointly established by the ministry and UNDP to foster democratic consolidation and strengthen governance systems across the West African sub-region.

UNDP is the UN’s lead agency on international development, working in over 170 countries and territories to end poverty, reduce inequalities and build resilient institutions. (NAN)

Edited by Chidi Opara

Hollywood jitters over U.S.-China tariff war
Foreign

Hollywood jitters over U.S.-China tariff war

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By Kamal Tayo Oropo

The U.S.-China tariff war may now be casting a shadow over Hollywood, according to He Beiping, a Chinese journalist based in Nigeria.

Beiping’s opinion is contained in a piece made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.

Beiping expressed concerns about China’s declining interest in American film imports.

He noted that during Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s recent visit to China, both countries signed a film cooperation agreement.

According to him, the deal aims to deepen cultural and industry ties through festivals, screenings, co-productions and professional exchanges.

“This signals China’s pivot towards broader cinematic partnerships beyond traditional U.S. collaborations.

“China, as the world’s second-largest film market, remains a crucial audience for global content creators.

“Yet, rising U.S. tariffs have triggered strategic pushback from Beijing,” he explained.

He stated that China’s National Film Administration has pledged to “moderately reduce the number of American films imported”.

“This announcement has unsettled Hollywood, with shares in studios like Disney and Warner Bros Discovery falling sharply.

“The tariff moves casts uncertainty over future U.S.-China film projects and market access.

“Still, China continues to reward high-quality international content at the box office,” he said.

Beiping emphasised that strong demand remains, provided partnerships are fair and mutually beneficial.

He pointed out an imbalance: U.S. service exports to China have surged over sevenfold since 2001.

According to him, Washington’s tariff policies risk harming its own success in key service sectors like film and technology.

NAN recalls that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also warned of possible counter-measures.

These include potential restrictions on U.S. tech firms, suggesting wider economic consequences.

Beiping noted that America’s surplus with Europe relies heavily on technology services.

He argued that such threats reflect a growing instability driven by short-term trade decisions.

“Meanwhile, China is embracing openness,” he said, referencing the recent deal with Spain.

That agreement reflects a multilateral approach to creative exchange and global trade.

“This model, based on mutual gain, could raise standards and enrich global audiences,” he said.

Beiping added that the era of American unilateral dominance is ending, replaced by a multipolar world of shared opportunity. (NAN) 

Edited by Polycarp Auta

NUSA remains voice of Nigerians in South Africa– Nwobi
Foreign

NUSA remains voice of Nigerians in South Africa– Nwobi

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By Mufutau Ojo

Mr Smart Nwobi, the newly inaugurated President of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), says the body will remain the voice of Nigerians in that country.

 

Nwobi said this in Sandton, Johannesburg, at the inauguration of new executives of NUSA

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured the swearing-in of a 13-member national executive team and the launch of The Migrant Magazine.

The event had as theme: “Uniting Nigerians in South Africa.”

 

Nwobi, in his inaugural address as the newly elected President of NUSA, emphasised the Union’s unwavering commitment to being the voice of all Nigerians living in South Africa.

 

“This administration is dedicated to promoting unity among our

diverse Nigerian community in South Africa.

 

“We will focus on supporting growth in trade and commerce while fostering stronger relationships between Nigerians and South Africans,” Nwobi said.

 

NAN reports that the ceremony featured the official launch of The Migrant Magazine, a significant milestone for the Nigerian community.

Akindele Olunloyo, the Editor-in-Chief of the magazine and National Publicity Secretary of NUSA, shared insights on the publication’s mission at the forum.

 

“The magazine was launched to bridge Nigerian migrants’ heritage with their South African presence, thereby creating space for dialogue and community building.

 

“It documents our migrant experiences with dignity and authenticity,” he said.

 

Dr Sule Bassi, Secretary of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission represented Abike Dabiri-Erewa, its Chief Executive, at the event.

 

Bassi, in a goodwill message, highlighted the various opportunities available for Nigerians in the Diaspora to contribute to national development in Nigeria.

 

The event was attended by dignitaries and community leaders from across

South Africa, underscoring the rising influence and importance of NUSA in South Africa.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigeria, U.S. to develop partnership on economy, security
Foreign

Nigeria, U.S. to develop partnership on economy, security

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By Salif Atojoko

Nigeria, Africa and the U.S. are set to develop a strategic economic and security partnership.

In line with this, President Bola Tinubu held a meeting with Mr Massad Boulos, U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa, in Paris, France.

Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, said that the meeting focused on developing a strategic economic and security partnership between Nigeria, Africa, and the United States anchored on mutual respect, prosperity, and regional stability,

“The U.S. State Department representative conveyed President Trump’s strong interest in deepening direct engagement with Nigeria as a cornerstone of U.S. relations with Africa.

“The U.S. wanted to work closely with President Tinubu to expand American investment in Nigeria and Africa, support energy and infrastructure development, and align trade and job creation efforts.

“Both sides discussed actionable support and shared their perspectives on regional peace, particularly in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and across the Sahel.”

President Trump’s advisor recognised Nigeria’s regional and continental leadership and supported President Tinubu’s interventions to stabilise key African regions.

Tinubu also reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to build productive alliances with the United States, centred on transparency, opportunity, mutual respect and outcomes that strengthen Africa’s place in the global economy. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Analysts warn of trade risks from U.S. port fees
Foreign

Analysts warn of trade risks from U.S. port fees

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By Fortune Abang

Analysts have raised concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 30 billion dollars shipbuilding policy, warning it could pose significant challenges to global trade.

The initiative, aimed at reviving America’s declining shipbuilding sector, includes a controversial plan to impose port fees on Chinese ships and non-Chinese operators of Chinese-built vessels.

Speaking during a global trade virtual session on Friday, shipbuilding experts said the policy, if implemented, could affect 98 per cent of ships calling at U.S. ports.

According to the World Shipping Council (WSC), this could lead to container cost increases of 600 dollars to 800 dollars per unit, reducing U.S. competitiveness and transferring the burden of higher port taxes to energy-cargo shippers via charter-parties.

Sam Cho, Commissioner of the Port of Seattle and a managing member of the Northwest Seaport Alliance, said that carriers might be forced to consolidate their shipping routes to major ports like Los Angeles and Long Beach.

He warned that the resulting congestion could cause truck driver shortages, overstocked warehouses, and supply chain paralysis.

“For less-significant ports and smaller shipping companies, this could mean an existential threat.

 “Of the 103 U.S. ports, 95 are small- to medium-sized, handling fewer than one million twenty-foot equivalent units annually,” Cho said.

Bruce Burrows, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Marine Commerce, estimated that smaller vessels had already seen shipping costs increase by 100 to 500 per cent since March 2025.

He added that the Chamber projected the potential loss of 26,000 American jobs in industries dependent on affordable shipping, as well as 4 billion dollars in related economic activity.

“The first to bear the brunt, if implemented, would be U.S. ports, which handle about 40 per cent of the country’s goods trade and support more than 21 million jobs.

“To avoid multiple charges, carriers would limit their port calls, concentrating traffic in a few major hubs,” Burrows said.

Joe Kramek, President of the World Shipping Council, warned that the proposed fees could double transportation costs for U.S. exports.

He said higher port charges would particularly impact grain shippers, lowering the prices farmers receive.

“If the U.S. plans to replace these vessels with domestically flagged and built ships, the ships simply do not exist—nor does the shipyard capacity to build them,” Kramek added.

Ernie Thrasher, CEO of Xcoal Energy & Resources, noted that bulk shipments already face difficulties in securing bookings. “Agricultural exporters are struggling to secure ships beyond May.

“Vessel owners are refusing to offer future bookings for U.S. coal shipments due to the proposed fees,” he said.

Daniel Blazer, whose company operates about half of the short sea shipping service between Mexico and the eastern U.S., said two of his three vessels were built in China.

“If forced out of operation, we would need an additional 1,000 trucks per week to move goods across the U.S.-Mexico border, worsening congestion, straining highway infrastructure, and increasing security risks,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Guy Platten, Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Shipping, said that 35 per cent of vessels servicing U.S. maritime trade routes that were built in China were owned and operated by companies in U.S. trading partner countries.

“Imposing fees on these vessels would not only affect China’s shipbuilding sector but could also seriously disrupt U.S. maritime supply chains,” Platten said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Akpabio assures China on bilateral agreements
Foreign

Akpabio assures China on bilateral agreements

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By Naomi Sharang

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has assured China that all bilateral agreements would be implemented.

This assurance was given during a courtesy visit in Abuja on Thursday.

Akpabio met with Hu Chunhua, Vice-Chairperson of the 14th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

The visit was a key moment for reinforcing relations between Nigeria and China.

He said, “Let me assure Your Excellency that this National Assembly stands ready to play its full role in advancing bilateral agreements and deepening parliamentary diplomacy.”

“We will ensure that the legislative framework for Nigeria-China relations remains robust, fruitful and forward-looking.”

Akpabio acknowledged the long-standing bond between Nigeria and China, noting that for more than fifty years, the relationship has evolved from cautious dialogue to a confident alliance.

“We cherish China as a steadfast partner, whose developmental journey continues to inspire the world,” he said.

He praised China’s transformation under the Communist Party.

He highlighted China’s global economic growth, innovation, and poverty eradication.

Akpabio expressed eagerness to learn from China’s experiences and adapt them to Nigeria’s development goals.

Akpabio noted the presence of Chinese companies in Nigeria. He pointed out that their projects, such as highways, railways, and ports, reflect shared ambitions for progress.

“These projects are the bridges of friendship and the arteries of progress,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of these structures in strengthening bilateral relations.

He also recalled President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Beijing. During the visit, leaders Xi Jinping and Tinubu envisioned a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a decision that transcended political gestures.

Akpabio welcomed closer ties between the Nigerian Parliament and the CPPCC. He called for mutual learning and institutional cooperation to further enhance their relationship. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

ECOWAS Court President, others hail retiring colleagues for impactful career
Foreign

ECOWAS Court President, others hail retiring colleagues for impactful career

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By Mark Longyen

Justice Ricardo Gonçalves, President, ECOWAS Court of Justice, and others, have commended the court’s officials, who are mandatorily retiring this year, for their impactful career and bequeathing indelible legacies.

Gonçalves stated this at a ceremony organised by the court in honour of four of its departing employees, who are retiring after many years of meritorious service to the institution.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the retiring staff are Dr Athanase Atannon, the court’s Deputy Chief Registrar and Dr William Towah, the Director of Administration and Finance.

Others are Mr Félicien Hounkanrin, the acting Head of the Court’s Communication Services, and Mr Iliyas Jonah, an Office Aide attached to a judge’s office.

The court’s president noted that all the retiring staffers made indelible impact on the institution and their office colleagues, stressing that it would be hard to replace them.

“Each of you leaves an indelible mark on this institution, both through your professional results and, above all, through the way you have left an impact on the people around you.

“Your wisdom and patience will continue to guide and inspire your colleagues. Your example and spirit of dedication will surely be a source of inspiration for many of us.

“The moment we share here today is also one of reflection. It is true that there is no one irreplaceable in this life but it will take years until we have someone with your experience and know-how,” he said.

Gonçalves further said that the road ahead might not be easy, particularly because their exit coincided with the difficult financial, social and security situation which ECOWAS was currently going through.

He said that in almost fifty years of its existence, for the first time, ECOWAS was faced, at one stroke, with the departure of three countries, with all the consequences that might result.

“However, we believe that our political decision-makers will know how to take advantage of this moment to carry out a profound reflection on the path taken and what is intended for our Community in the next fifty years.

“The path will still have challenges to be overcome, now focusing specifically on our Institution, if we consider that we will soon announce the recruitment competition for new employees.

“For this phase that is about to begin, it is our institution’s duty to firmly commit to excellence, rigor, and individual merit,” Gonçalves added.

Earlier in a remark of welcome, Dr Yaouza Ouro-Sama, the court’s Chief Registrar, said the retiring employees made a lasting impact on the court and colleagues through their dedication, passion and hard work.

He urged everyone to reflect on the remarkable contributions, which the outgoing employees made throughout their career, especially the moments they shared, touched colleagues’ lives, wisdom imparted, and relationships built.

“Your influence has been immeasurable, and while we will certainly miss you in the office, we know this new chapter will bring you exciting adventures and much-deserved rest.

“Let’s make today a reflection of the joy and success you’ve brought to all of us, and let’s celebrate you, your achievements, your journey and all that lies ahead,” he said.

Mr Ghislain Agbozo, staff representative at the event, in a goodwill message, said that it was fitting that the conclusion of one’s career should be marked with both joy and gratitude.

He said that the significance of the ceremony was to enable them pay tribute and gratitude to their retiring colleagues.

Mr Félicien Hounkanrin, one of the retirees, said that he was happy to retire after about twenty years of contributing to the development of the court with great impact.

The court’s outgoing spokesman said that he witnessed the evolution of the court and its achievements, especially the role which the judges played in strengthening the rule of law, democracy and justice.

“My advice to the people we’re leaving behind is that they too should contribute to the court’s success, and to know that the time will come when they will also go for their retirement.

“We did what we could do best but because of budget constraints, there are so many things we could not do. But we hope that in the years coming, they will get the funds to extend our activities.

“My wish is that those three countries that withdrew from ECOWAS would come back to their senses and rejoin the other 12 member countries so that the region will be more interesting and attractive,” he said.

NAN reports that the event was attended by prominent guests like the court’s Vice-President, Justice Sengu Koroma; Justice Gberi-Be Ouattara, and Justice Dupe Atoki, among others.

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Sweden pledges investment in Nigeria’s ICT, innovation hub sectors
Foreign

Sweden pledges investment in Nigeria’s ICT, innovation hub sectors

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

Mr Andreas Carlson, Sweden’s Minister for Infrastructure and Housing has pledged his country’s commitment to investing in Nigeria’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Innovation hub sectors.

Carlson made the pledge in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, on the sidelines of a three-day official visit by the  Crown Princess of Sweden, Victoria Désirée, to Nigeria.

The minister said that Sweden as one of the most innovative countries in the world, was ready to deepen it’s cooperation with Nigeria in the areas of innovation, tech, sustainable transportation, agriculture and  green transition.

” Sweden may not be one of the most populous countries in the world as Nigeria, but we are one of the most innovative countries.

 “We are happy to share knowledge and work together with the vibrant tech industry in Nigeria and you know the youthful population comes with a lot of opportunities.

“We see opportunities in ICT,  sustainable transport, mining, agriculture and a lot of other fields that we can cooperate with Nigeria,” he said.

Carlson said he accompanied the Crown Princess of Sweden to Nigeria to deepen bilateral relations between both countries, and inaugurate a strategic trade office in Lagos to facilitate swedish companies investment in Nigeria.

Earlier, the Crown Princess said the visit was a testament to the growing bilateral cooperation between both countries.

“Today, our collaboration spans many sectors—from renewable energy and sustainable transport to digital solutions.

“A testament to this deepening partnership is Sweden’s new trade office in Lagos, which I have the great privilege of inaugurating,” she said.

She  emphasised the strong cultural exchange between Sweden and Nigeria, citing the impact of Nigerian art and literature on Swedish society.

Sweden’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund told NAN that Sweden sees vast potential for further collaboration, especially in digitalisation, innovation, the green transition, and the creative industries.

“We already have about 40 Swedish companies present in Nigeria today, including multinationals like Ericsson, Atlas Copco, SKF, Arla, Scania, and Volvo.

“With the opening of  the trade office in Lagos, we expect even more trade and investments,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Touray tasks ECOWAS media excellence award jury on thorough job
Foreign

Touray tasks ECOWAS media excellence award jury on thorough job

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By Mark Longyen

ECOWAS President, Dr Omar Touray, has urged members of the jury, who are assessing various entries submitted by journalists for ECOWAS’ 50th Anniversary Media Excellence Award to do a thorough job.

Touray gave the charge at the opening ceremony and commencement of deliberations of the ECOWAS Media Excellence Awards 2025 Jury Deliberation Meeting, on Wednesday, in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event with the theme: “50 Years of ECOWAS – Honouring the Voices That Tell Our Story,” is the maiden edition of the awards.

He reminded the members that their inclusion in the jury was a testament to their dedication, expertise, and commitment to upholding the highest standards of journalism in the subregion.

Represented by Mr Mambureh Njie, his Special Advisor on Economic Affairs, Touray said the awards were not mere accolades but part of a legacy, which ECOWAS was building for the next 50 years in West Africa.

“As you undertake this responsibility, I encourage you to uphold the highest standards of evaluation guided by the principles of objectivity, impartiality and let merit lead the way.

“You should painstakingly assess and approach each entry with fairness, consistency and regional perspective to honour contributions that uphold ECOWAS’ shared values.

“Ethical responsibilities reward journalism rooted in truth and integrity. Excellence in craft recognises storytelling that informs, inspires and transforms,” he said.

Touray noted that over the last 50 years, the media had been a strong partner and pillar in ECOWAS’ journey toward promoting democracy, good governance, peace, security, and regional integration.

He said that as ECOWAS marked 50 years of existence, it was only proper to recognise and celebrate journalists who reported its challenges, championed its successes, and gave it a voice.

“The ECOWAS Media Excellence Award, launched as part of our golden jubilee celebration, is more than a recognition of journalistic achievement.

“It is a reaffirmation of our commitment to fostering a free, dynamic, and responsible media landscape, which promotes regional integration, democratic governance.

“One which promotes a free, dynamic, and responsible media landscape and celebrate those who report with integrity, accuracy, and courage,” he said.

Speaking earlier on behalf of other members, Mr Abdoulie Gassama, the chairman of the jury, promised to approach the task before them with diligence, impartiality, and deep respect for the work.

Gassama said that the responsibility of being tasked with recognising and celebrating journalists who demonstrated exceptional skill, creativity, and commitment to their craft was very significant.

“We all dedicated our careers to holding the highest standards of journalistic integrity, creativity, creative excellence, and impactful storytelling.

“The submissions we are about to review represent the best of media industry. They showcase the power of media to inform, inspire, and challenge.

“They demonstrate the dedication of journalists, producers, and content creators to bring important stories to the light, to foster dialogue, and to uphold power to account,” he said.

Gassama said that the core principles that would guide the jury’s assessment of the entries for the awards would be impact, integrity, innovation, accuracy, fairness, ethics and craftsmanship conduct.

Mr Joel Ahofodji, ECOWAS spokesman, in an opening remark, explained that the jury was responsible for examining, assessing, and selecting the best submissions in each category: television, radio, print, online, and photography.

He said that the jury would also ensure that selection process was fair, transparent, free of any conflict of interest, respect the confidentiality of the deliberations and suggest the modalities  for future regulations of the award.

NAN reports that the jury comprises Gassama from Gambia as chairman alongside Paul Douakoutche from Benin; Ms Filomena Silva from Cape Verde; and Mr Bamba Mafoumgbe from Ivory Coast as members.

Other members are Dr Ibrahim Awal from Ghana; Mrs Yemi Kolapo from Nigeria; Dr Adrienne Diop from Senegal, who is a former spokesperson of the ECOWAS Commission.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Touray urges ECOWAS member states to collaborate, ensure WAPIS’ sustainability
Foreign

Touray urges ECOWAS member states to collaborate, ensure WAPIS’ sustainability

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By Mark Longyen

ECOWAS President, Dr Omar Touray, says collaboration of member states is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of the West African Police Information System (WAPIS), a subregional security initiative.

Touray made this known at the official handing over ceremony of WAPIS by the International Police Organisation (INTERPOL) to ECOWAS, national and regional authorities and governments on Tuesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that WAPIS is a successful collaboration model between ECOWAS and INTERPOL, funded by the EU, in the fight against transnational crimes and terrorism.

Touray, represented by Dr Abdel-Fatah Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner, Political Affairs, Peace and Security, described the initiative as a unique technical tool for all member states to collaborate and fight subregional crime.

He noted that terrorism and other crimes facing the subregion were not limited to zones or individual member states but existed everywhere throughout West Africa, which necessitated collaboration.

According to Touray, this is why ECOWAS is still striving to maintain intelligence sharing, collaboration, and cooperation with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, even though they decided to leave the bloc.

“We feel that you cannot fight terrorism in the Sahel alone without collaboration with the coastal countries, as we have seen evidence.

“So, ECOWAS’ door has always been open for collaboration and we are also happy that this extends beyond even the 15 original member states of ECOWAS to other countries.

“We need to broaden partnerships, and still continue collaboration with the European Union, in order to maintain the expertise that has been developed in the course of the WAPIS process in the region,” he said.

The commission’s president said that experts from member states had made a number of recommendations, which would culminate in a legally binding mechanism that would cement the WAPIS framework.

He said there was need to get the political will of member states to make them understand that sharing information was important and WAPIS tool was useful for them in the fight against criminality.

“This is so that we can genuinely have a regional approach. The region must have autonomy over the infrastructure that is being created.

“WAPIS has succeeded in bridging the implementation gap to an extent.

“We need to take it further and that will require a continuation of the WAPIS agenda, even as the funding by the European Union is coming to an end,” he said.

Also speaking, Nigeria’s Minister of Police Affairs, Sen. Ibrahim Geidam, said that Nigeria had greatly benefited from the implementation of WAPIS since it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with INTERPOL in 2019.

He said that in recognition of the importance of interagency collaboration in tackling security challenges, the government brought onboard key national law enforcement agencies for that purpose.

“Additionally, in our deliberate move to foster ownership and operational efficiency, the ministry recently organised a three-day WAPIS workshop themed: “Interagency Collaboration on Information Sharing among Law Enforcement Agencies in Nigeria.

“This vital workshop brought together key stakeholders from various law enforcement agencies, resulting in strategic deliberations that were encapsulated in a communique presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC),” Geidam said.

EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr Gautier Mignot, said WAPIS’ success demonstrated that regional and international cooperation supported by modern and adaptive technologies could truly transform security in West Africa.

He said the EU had played a pivotal role in modernising and enhancing West Africa’s security forces through WAPIS, which it funded with 28 million euros from its beginning in 2012.

The ambassador disclosed that since 2015, over 740,000 police data entries had been digitalised and integrated into the WAPIS systems, which was a key asset in the fight against transnational crime.

He added that as the EU was officially ending its funding in a few weeks, it was imperative to ensure WAPIS sustainability so it would continue serving the region’s security forces.

Mr Cyril Gout, Interpol Executive Director, Police Services, who symbolically officially handed over WAPIS to Geidam and ECOWAS,  expressed his delight in seeing WAPIS reach its current level of implementation.

He said that WAPIS, which worked through harmonised data sharing, had become the cornerstone of law enforcement in the ECOWAS subregion.

The Inspector-General, Nigeria Police Force, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, who was represented by Mr Olaolu Adegbite, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Interpol National Central Bureau, also gave a goodwill message.

NAN reports that WAPIS was unveiled in Sept. 2012 to enhance West African law enforcement agencies’ capacity to tackle transnational crime using digital technology.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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