News Agency of Nigeria
Abia, Turkey plan investment summit, exhibition to deepen investment ties
Foreign

Abia, Turkey plan investment summit, exhibition to deepen investment ties

Summit

By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom

The Abia Government has announced plans to host a Turkey-Abia Investment Summit and Exhibition in a strategic move to boost international trade and attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDI).

Dr Green Amakwe, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Investment Promotion and Public-Private Partnerships, disclosed this at a news briefing in Umuahia on Wednesday.

Amakwe said that the event would focus on a multi-faceted investment promotion drive to strengthen economic relations with Turkey and other key partners.

He described the event as FDI exposition for international and local investors to explore the state’s areas of comparative advantage, as a preferred investment destination in Nigeria and Africa.

He also said that the event would position Abia as a hub for export-oriented and industrial investments across a wide range of sectors.

Amakwe said that the government was targeting high-potential areas, including agriculture and agro-allied industries, textiles, footwear and leather, gas, energy, solid minerals, warehousing, and infrastructure.

He said, “Our goal is to promote Abia as an attractive destination for sustainable investments that will drive inclusive economic growth and job creation.”

Amakwe said that a core part of the strategy involved fostering bilateral cooperation between Abia and Turkish investors, building on the strong diplomatic relations and positive perception of Turkish products and businesses among Nigerians.

He also expressed the readiness of the government to explore collaborative opportunities between Abia and other Nigerian states, working jointly to attract Turkish investments into larger, integrated projects.

“We are not just building investment partnerships; we are creating a new economic identity for Abia, one that is competitive, reliable, and investor-friendly,” he also said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abia Government, in partnership with Vega Growing Global Enterprises, is currently working on organising the event, which will run from November 25 to November 27. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sam Oditah

Saudi authorities ban political, sectarian expressions at Hajj sites
Foreign

Saudi authorities ban political, sectarian expressions at Hajj sites

By Deji Abdulwahab

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced a strict ban on taking photographs, videos or raising political and sectarian expressions at main Hajj sites.
In a statement, the ministry emphasised that pilgrims are prohibited from taking photographs or recording videos within Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah.
Other location where such is banned include Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.

Officials have stressed that such actions could undermine the spiritual atmosphere of Hajj and risk sowing division among pilgrims who come from across the globe.

The ministry reaffirmed that the pilgrimage is a sacred time dedicated to worship, humility, and unity, and any conduct that contradicts these values would not be tolerated.

”Pilgrims are strongly encouraged to adhere to the regulations and cooperate fully with authorities to ensure that Hajj 2025 is conducted in a peaceful, orderly, and spiritually enriching environment.

“Security personnel will be deployed throughout the pilgrimage period to monitor and enforce these regulations.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Hajj without permit attracts 100,000 riyals fine, 10-year ban- Envoy
Foreign

Hajj without permit attracts 100,000 riyals fine, 10-year ban- Envoy

By Deji Abdulwahab

Dr Modibbo Umar, Charge De Affaires, Nigerian Embassy, Riyadh, says pilgrims performing the 2025 Hajj without permit are liable to 100,000 riyals fine, 10 years ban and deportation.

Umar said this at the Hajj 2025 Pre-Arafat Stakeholders’ meeting, organised by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in Makkah on Monday.

The envoy recalled that during the 2024 Hajj, the fine for illegally performing Hajj without a permit was 50,000 riyals.

He therefore urged Nigerian pilgrims to be law-abiding and follow the rules and regulations of their host.

“We have very strong advice for our pilgrims. We need to be law-abiding and follow the rules and regulations of our hosts for the duration of our pilgrimage here.

“We should also let our people around here know that the Saudi authorities this year have sent very strong signals that Hajj without permit will not be condoned.

“They have raised the stake. Last year the fine for illegally performing Hajj without a permit was 50,000 riyals.

”This time around, their message is 100,000 riyals, including deportation and being banned from the Kingdom for 10 years. So, please I urge you to tell our people all this,” he said.

The Charge De Affaires also urged Nigerian pilgrims to pray for Nigeria in order to leave a better country for future generation.

“We will like to use this opportunity to call on all our pilgrims who are in this holy sessions of the Hajj, to pray for our country and Muslims all over the world.

“May we have a world that is far better than what it is now for our children and our grandchildren,” he said.

In his remarks, the Chairman, NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, said the common goal of the Pre-Arafat Stakeholders’ meeting was to ensure that Nigerian pilgrims get the benefits and services they deserve.

According to Saleh, as stakeholders, our job is like that of a servants to the Nigerian pilgrims and they are the reason why we are here today.

“We have to serve them to the best of our ability because they have paid for that.

“Whether you are from the states, service provider, medical teams, security, media or even from the NAHCON staff, your engagement in Hajj operation is like a contract to serve the pilgrims.”

The NAHCON chairman sued for teamwork, which he said was one of the keys to success as no one person could do it alone.

“We must listen to each other, support one another and put the needs of our pilgrims first.

“I urge every one of us to work towards the success of this important five days period in the lives of pilgrims.

”Pilgrims are our guests and more importantly they are the guests of our creator, Allah,” he added.

Similarly, Prince Anofi Elegushi, the Commissioner of Operations, NAHCON, said the purpose of Pre-Arafat meeting was to inform the stakeholders on arrangements and measures put in place for 2025 Hajj rites.

Elegushi said that it had been a tradition that a few days before Arafat and moving to Mina, there would be a pre-Arafat stakeholders’ meeting.

“This is a way of informing our stakeholders on the journey so far and what we are still going to face in the Hajj process.

“So, this is a session where information will be disseminated on how to go about the rest of the process.

“It is also an avenue where people will raise questions and find solutions to issues affecting them,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Deborah Coker

Tuggar reiterates Nigeria’s commitment to bolstering economic integration in W/Africa
Foreign

Tuggar reiterates Nigeria’s commitment to bolstering economic integration in W/Africa

By Fortune Abang

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment towards working closely with the diplomatic community to bolster the inclusive economic integration of West Africa.

Tuggar made this known on Tuesday in Abuja, during the stakeholders engagement with West African Ambassadors against the backdrop of the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES).

The summit which is scheduled to take place from June 20 to 21, 2025 in Abuja, is an initiative of President Bola Tinubu.

Tuggar said, “We convene to discuss an initiative that pertains to our shared future, one that is founded on mutual interest, collective prosperity and regional unity.

“Let me begin by extending our appreciation for the active role your embassies continue to play in fostering cooperation, trade and diplomatic solidarity among our nations.

“In the same way, we have invited your excellencies today to become key partners and champions of a unique moment in our region’s economic diplomacy.

“It is rooted in his firm conviction expressed during his inaugural address as ECOWAS Chairman, that; we will work collectively to pursue an inclusive economic integration of West Africa.

“This will serve as a warning to exploiters that our people have suffered enough.”

The minister explained the summit to be centered on a high-level, non-political and inclusive platform for West African economic integration.

He also mentioned that it would bring together Heads of State, Ministers, private sector leaders, development partners, youth innovators and entrepreneurs.

“Unlike past efforts rooted solely in institutional frameworks, WAES is grounded in the practical realities of our regional market and the immense potential of our people.

“The decision to convene WAES outside the traditional ECOWAS framework was intentional. It highlights the economic need to foster integration among all West African states, regardless of current regional affiliations. The message is straightforward: when we prosper together, we prosper better.

“WAES offers a rare opportunity for West African countries to take ownership of their economic destiny by confronting the persistent barriers to intra-regional trade, fragmented infrastructure and inconsistent regulatory environments.

“It provides a forum to articulate our common development priorities, promote scalable investments, and unlock youth-driven innovation.

“The wealth of the West African coast, our gold, our labour, our very people fueled empires and financed revolutions; yet we have been denied a fair stake in the prosperity we helped create,” he said.

He also said that while others developed on the back of Atlantic commerce, West Africa had remained short changed.

He restated that the sub-region would no longer be a spectator, rather it would stand at the threshold of a new Atlantic era of prosperity.

“This time, we will shape its terms, ensure equity, and West Africa will rise not as a resource base for others, but as a fully engaged and empowered actor in global trade and transformation.

“To achieve this and more, your full representation and active participation in this Summit are desirable and essential.

“The breadth and impact of WAES will be measured by the resolve of our collective voice and the diversity of our contributions. Let us see every flag of West Africa represented, every voice heard, and every country’s corporate sector showcased,” he added.

He further urged the ambassadors to encourage participation from their respective Heads of State, Ministers of Trade, Finance and Foreign Affairs, as well as the canvass involvement of their national business communities, chambers of commerce and startup ecosystems.

“This is a moment of shared responsibility. As the world undergoes geopolitical realignments and economic protectionism, we must stand as an example of how regional unity can deliver genuine, people-focused prosperity.

“We must ensure West Africa is economically relevant, strategically coordinated and globally competitive. In the coming days, our team will continue to reach out to your missions for updates, participation inputs and logistical coordination.

“We are relying on you not only to open doors but also to walk with us as partners in progress,” the minister said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Envoy lauds Italy, Nigeria’s growing bond in economy, cultural relations
Foreign

Envoy lauds Italy, Nigeria’s growing bond in economy, cultural relations

By Maureen Okon

Mr Iacopo Foti, the Acting Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, has lauded the growing bond between Italy and Nigeria in their economic, cultural, and people-to-people relationships.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the envoy gave the commendation at the 79th Italian National Day celebration which took place on Sunday night in Abuja.

The ambassador expressed optimism that these relationships will lead to concrete actions and investments. 

Foti said that Italy was not only celebrating its anniversary but also celebrating the friendship, cooperation and the shared aspirations that linked the two countries since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960.

According to him, Nigeria, a land of incredible diversity, dynamic energy, and immerse potential, has become, since in the 70s and 80s, a second home for many Italians that have contributed to the development of the country in variety of sectors.

“Nigeria is a cultural powerhouse, a leader in Africa and globally in art, literature, and film.

“Italy, with its deep-rooted cultural legacy, is eager to expand its engagement with Africa, and particularly with Nigeria.

“We are proud to be a part of this welcoming and vibrant society. I appreciate the dedication and hard work of the Nigerian people, their entrepreneurial spirit and the warmth hospitality towards the Italian community.

“Our relationship is built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. We see this in the increasing economic ties between our countries.

“We see it in the growing cultural exchanges, the shared passion for football, and the increasing number of Nigerians who study and visit Italy every year as enthusiastic students and tourists.

“We also appreciate the growing number of Italians who are drawn to the richness of Nigeria’s culture and history and call this marvelous land their second home,’’ he said.

He further said that other shared cooperations were that both countries are the birthplace of the popular and attractive movie industry and they shared the sense of aesthetics deeply rooted in both nations history.

He said other shared relations are in fashion, and that Italy and Nigeria are both non individualistic societies where family and friends play a central role in the lives of the people.

“We are both historically a migrant society that have not only built fortune abroad but always kept our hearts close to the motherland.

“In the end, both countries are not so different, on the contrary they are quite similar, that is why we understand and appreciate each other.

“Finally, both our societies are sometimes victims of stereotypes and misperceptions that affect our reputation at a global level; countries like ours, so rich in culture and talent, are often the pray of a simplistic way of life.

“As one of my favourite Nigerian authors, Chimamanda Adichie, once said: the single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story,’’ he quoted.

He appreciated the Italian community for integrating into the Nigerian system by bringing Italian food products, marbles and stones, design, fashion, advanced technology and know-how.

“As we look ahead, we are optimistic about the future of Italy-Nigeria relations. There is so much more we can achieve together. We can deepen our economic partnerships.

“Our scientific and technology collaboration and of course we can expand and intensify our cultural and academic exchanges,’’ Foti said.

NAN reports that guests were treated to savoury Italian cuisines and drinks. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

€1m grant: French embassy releases list of beneficiaries
Foreign

€1m grant: French embassy releases list of beneficiaries

By Maureen Okon

The French Embassy on Monday in Abuja shed more light on its 1m euros (N1.8 billion) grant for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria, providing a list of beneficiaries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 19 CSOs, drawn from 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory, are listed.

The grant is to be deployed to drive grassroots development in the country.

The donation was announced in Abuja on Friday.

Tagged the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organisation (FEF-OSC), the initiative is now in its sixth year.

Among the CSOs listed are Against All Odds Foundation and Grassroot Researchers Association based in Adamawa; and Girl Child Values Support Initiative and Youth and Adolescent Health Initiative and Counselling in Bauchi State.

Also on the list are, The Centre for Redefining Alternative Civic Engagement for Africa (RACE Africa) in Benue; Economic and Social Empowerment of Rural Communities (Enugu State); and Empower to Thrive Development Initiative (FCT).

Circuit Pointe (Imo); Anti-Sexual Violence Lead Support Initiative (Kaduna State); Bridge Connect Africa Initiative (Kano State); and Protect the Child Foundation (Kogi) are also listed.

The list includes Hopesalive Initiative for Africa-HAI and Humanity Family Foundation for Peace and Development (Lagos State); as well as Olive Rights to Health Initiative (Nasarawa State).

Also listed are Community Health Initiative for Youth in Nigeria and RippleAfrica Trust Foundation (Niger).

The rest are Committed Soul Women Health Advocacy Africa Initiative (Oyo State); and Gender Equality, Peace and Development Centre and Protection Without Borders League (Zamfara).

According to Bertrand de Seissan, the Political Counsellor at the French Embassy, the initiative will provide targeted financial and technical support to empower the organisations to tackle pressing challenges.

These challenges, he said, include gender inequality, economic vulnerability and community resilience.

He said this year’s edition was carried out through a competitive process aimed at implementing high impact projects spread across diverse communities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m
Foreign

Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m

By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has advised pilgrims to stay in their tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. due to soaring daytime temperatures during the pilgrimage.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, gave the advice while speaking to newsmen in Makkah on Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Saudi Arabia, through its National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), had on Sunday issued heatwave warnings for Hajj 2025.

The centre urged pilgrims to take precautions amid soaring daytime temperatures between 40°C and 47°C.

The NCM forecasted challenging weather, including high temperatures, potential thunderstorms, and reduced visibility.

Saleh said NAHCON had a stakeholders’ meeting with all the Nigeria Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Boards.

He said the boards were mandated to tell their pilgrims that no pilgrim would be allowed out of their  tents in Mina and Arafat due to soaring temperature.

“Yesterday we called all the stakeholders. We met with them and mandated them to announce and tell their people that nobody is allowed to be out of the tent from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m.

“It is not advised to go out because the temperature is not normal this year. We also advised them to continue drinking water.

“If it is necessary to be outside, let them go with water in hand. Let them take their umbrellas and use them, because the temperature is not normal.

The NAHCON chairman urged the media to help the commission to disseminate the information to the pilgrims to adhere to the heatwave warnings.

“So, media, please you are our eyes, you are our voice to the public. Help us tell our people to adhere to this instruction.”

NAN reports that approximately 63,000 Nigerian pilgrims are expected for the 2025 Hajj. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Saudi authorities issue precautions as temperatures soar to 47°C
Foreign

Saudi authorities issue precautions as temperatures soar to 47°C

By Deji Abdulwahab

Saudi Arabia, through its National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), has issued heatwave warnings for Hajj 2025, urging pilgrims to take precautions amid soaring daytime temperatures between 40°C and 47°C.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NCM has forecasted challenging weather, including high temperatures, potential thunderstorms, and reduced visibility.

With temperatures projected to reach up to 47°C, Saudi authorities said that they are implementing comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all pilgrims.

According to the NCM, humidity levels are expected to fluctuate between 15 per cent and 60 per cent, potentially intensifying discomfort for pilgrims.

“Northerly to northwesterly winds, blowing at speeds of 25 to 35 km/h, may raise dust and significantly lower visibility, especially in open areas and along highways leading to the holy sites.

“Additionally, there is a possibility of thunderstorms forming over the Taif highlands between the 8th and 13th of Dhu Al Hijjah.

“This may extend to Mecca and surrounding areas, accompanied by strong downdrafts that could worsen dusty conditions.” it said.

In response to these forecasts, the NCM advised the pilgrims to take necessary precautions.

“Pilgrims are advised to stay well-hydrated, use protective gear such as umbrellas, and adhere to official weather updates.

“883 air conditioning units, 244 mist fans, and 3,139 ventilation fans have been installed throughout the holy sites to enhance comfort amid the desert heat.

“Additionally, 432 fragrance diffusers will infuse the air with calming aromas, enhancing the overall atmosphere of tranquillity and reverence,” it said.

It said that the recently inaugurated cooled pedestrian walkway in Makkah was part of the broader “Cooled Roads Initiative”.

“It is aimed at reducing surface temperatures and enhancing comfort for the millions of pilgrims during the intense summer heat.

“Mobility has also been addressed with the deployment of 400 electric carts, providing additional support for elderly and physically limited pilgrims in completing their rites,” it said.

On the health precautions, the Saudi Ministry of Health had confirmed five cases of heat exhaustion among the more than one million pilgrims who have arrived to perform Hajj rituals.

According to the ministry, all affected individuals received immediate medical attention and are currently in stable condition.

“Health teams are on high alert to respond swiftly to similar cases as part of the Kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of pilgrims.

“Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, excessive sweating, nausea, dizziness, and severe thirst.

“If not treated promptly, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency within 10 to 15 minutes,” the health ministry said.

To combat heatstroke risks, the ministry announced a series of measures in coordination with the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites.

These include planting more than 10,000 trees, installing 400 additional water coolers and misting fans, and expanding shaded pedestrian pathways to protect pilgrims from extreme heat. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Kabir, other surveyors inaugurate World Geospatial Information Home in China
Foreign

Kabir, other surveyors inaugurate World Geospatial Information Home in China

Ambassador Mohammed Kabir, former Registrar of the Surveyors Council of Nigeria, on Friday joined his colleagues to cut the tape to inaugurate the World Geospatial Information Home (WGIH), in Deqing, China.

The WGIH was inaugurated under the auspices of the United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Centre (UNGGKIC), also in Deqing, China.

A statement from the WGIH indicated that the Home was built to promote global cooperation and partnership in the geospatial industry.

It also promotes collaboration in universal research and innovation and engages in the dissemination of geospatial information for the benefit of the global community.

Together with the inauguration of the Home, the International Volunteer Service Federation for Global Geospatial Information Management (GGIM), was also launched.

It is expected to augment the attainment of the objectives of establishing the WGIH.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the event was jointly organised by Geospatial Industry Development Centre of Huzhou Moganshan High-Tech zone, and Deqing Association for Geospatial Information Professionals.

More than 60 participants from the field of surveying, mapping and geospatial information from various countries attended the activity.

Among the countries are Nigeria, China, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia and UK.

Others are Germany, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran and Bolivia.

Keynote speeches were delivered by Prof. Guefei Jing, Deputy Director, Regional Centre of Space Science and Technology Education in Asia and Pacific.

Malam Kabir, who is also the Chairperson of the International Federation of Surveyors-Africa Regional Network, and Ambassador of African Union Agenda 2063, also delivered a keynote address.

Dr Nicholas Hamm, Associate Professor of Geospatial Data Science at the University of Nottingham, Ningbo, China, also delivered a keynote address.

The speeches focused on cross-regional cooperation in spatio-temporal biodata as well as AU agenda 2063.

Other areas included China-Africa geospatial information cooperation as well as spatial data science education.

The statement enjoined professionals in the surveying sector to join the International Volunteer Service so as to contribute their quota to global peace and prosperity through the GGIM. (NAN)

Edited by Polycarp Auta

Nigerian pilgrims demonstrate integrity through numerous return of lost cash – NAHCON
Foreign

Nigerian pilgrims demonstrate integrity through numerous return of lost cash – NAHCON

By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says Nigerian pilgrims performing the 2025 Hajj have demonstrated the acts of honesty and integrity through numerous return of lost cash to the rightful owners.

NAHCON disclosed this in a statement by its Head, Public Affairs, Malam Muhammad Musa, in Makkah on Saturday.

According to Musa, the pilgrims have continued to distinguish themselves through acts of integrity and honesty, with several returning lost cash to the rightful owners, Nigerians and foreigners alike.

“In one commendable instance, the Deputy Coordinator of Makkah Operations, Alhaji Alidu Shutti, presented three Nigerian pilgrims to the Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofi’u Elegushi, after they voluntarily returned two separate purses containing cash”.

He said that one of the pilgrims, Alhaji Bello Ajani from Ede Local Government Area in Osun State, found 200 Saudi Riyals (approximately 53.31 dollars).

He said that the money was handed over to NAHCON through Alhaji Abdrasheed Abdulazeez, the Special Assistant on Islamic Affairs to the Oyo State Government.

“In a separate case, two pilgrims, Alhaji Isiaka Olaosun from Kwara and Alhaji Bakare Momodu from Edo also found a lost purse.

“They contacted NAHCON’s Makkah Media Office and followed directions to deliver the purse in person to Alhaji Shutti, who then presented them to the commissioner.

“The second purse, belonging to an Egyptian pilgrim identified as Mustafa Ramadhan Mustafa Ali, contained 4,590 Egyptian Pounds, 65 Saudi Riyals and 5 Euros,” he said.

Meanwhile, Elegushi ordered the funds to be returned to the Egyptian Embassy for onward delivery to the rightful owner.

The 200 Saudi Riyals found earlier will be returned to Nigerian pilgrim, Shukurah Yusuf from the FCT Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Commending the pilgrims for their exemplary conduct, Elegushi described them as “True Ambassadors of Nigeria” and prayed for their continued success and wellbeing.

He also directed that letters of commendation be issued to all individuals involved, including the Oyo State official who facilitated the return.

“These incidents form part of a growing pattern of honesty within the Nigerian pilgrims’ community, reflecting a renewed spirit of integrity and moral uprightness that is drawing wide acclaim,” Musa said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email