NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Ghana poll: Candidates must adhere to rule of law-Chambas

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By Mufutau Ojo

Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the Chairman of the African Union High Level Panel on Sudan, has called on candidates in Ghana’s forthcoming presidential election to obey the rule of law throughout the electoral process.

 

Chambas made the plea in Accra on Thursday while delivering the keynote address at the signing of a peace pact by the candidates.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the presidential election in Ghana will hold on Dec. 7.

 

A copy of the speech delivered by Chambas at the forum was made available to NAN in Abuja on Friday.

 

Chambas said that the signing of the peace pact was a commitment to uphold the principles of fair play.

 

According to Chambas, the pact is a wake up call to party faithful and followers of candidates that there is no place for violence in democratic elections.

 

“When the Heads of State of Africa adopted the Silencing the Guns Initiative, they sought through it to build an Africa at peace with itself and with the rest of the world.

 

“Across the continent, one of the triggers of conflict has been poorly conducted elections,” he said.

 

Chambas said African leaders were desirous of bequeathing to present and future generations a peaceful continent which would would focus on underdevelopment, poverty and inequalities.

 

He said Ghana had stood out as a shining example of best practices of election management systems, technology, innovation, processes and procedures.

 

Chambas, however, warned all stakeholders against complacency, saying the burden had now shifted to the Electoral Commission, Ghana Police Service and supporting security agencies, political activists, media and judiciary.

 

” There can be no complacency. Ghana’s past successes are no guarantee or assurance of current or future performance,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

ECOWAS-MSME collaboration excites regional entrepreneurs 

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By Mark Longyen

West African entrepreneurs under the aegis of ECOWAS Small Business Coalition(ESBC) say their collaboration with ECOWAS is crucial to achieving individual, group and subregional economic integration goals.

 

The entrepreneurs spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of ESBC’s inaugural exhibition and workshop in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

 

According to them, collaboration will ensure positive interface between the ECOWAS body and entrepreneur towards meeting regional and global standards and practices in their businesses.

Mrs Amina Suleiman, CEO, MINALADI Enterprises, a Nigerian fashion designer and manufacturer, who was appointed an ESBC Ambassador, said that collaboration was their strength.

 

“That coming together, uniting, forming a coalition, is helping the SMEs to grow and I believe there’s going to be so many millionaires emerging from this event.

 

“I’ve learned a lot; from the lectures to meeting different African countries to understand that there’s actually unity when it comes to Africans coming together. We keep getting stronger when we are together.

 

“The programme is like an eye-opener for me. I’ve seen so many hardworking people. I’ve seen people that I’ve learned from and I’ll keep learning,” she said.

Mrs Sylviane Kone, from Ivory Coast, a former ECOWAS Director, Human Resources, now Managing Director, AGS Group, an Abidjan-based food processing consultancy firm, stressed the need for the entrepreneurs to collaborate.

 

She said that the essence of ESBC was to facilitate economic integration by harmonising the processing of MSMEs’ goods to produce standard products.

 

“We have to be one, we have to standardise our products if we want competitiveness.

 

“Africa with all the 15 member states of ECOWAS, like Mali are here, Niger, Burkina Faso are also here.

 

“We have to have a strong Africa. We can even export from our 15 member states. This is how we can achieve the goal of success in Africa,” she said.

 

Mahamadou Kinta, CEO, Kinta Enterprises and President, SMEs coalition in Mali, said the event was an opportunity to bring West African entrepreneurs together to agree on business models that would culminate in growing their economies.

 

Kinta noted that Mali was currently facing serious security challenges, which inhibits the free movement of goods and people, stressing that such was inimical to economic integration.

 

He urged ECOWAS and the African Union to resolve the issues because they could block the process of subregional integration.

 

“This event is about strengthening businesses in our region, so we have to come together. That’s why we appreciate this initiative coming from ECOWAS so much.

 

“We have this problem in our country, our goods and people cannot travel freely because they have so many troubles in the borders.

 

“I think this is like a tool to make all the small businesses of our countries come together to empower their businesses to grow faster and move the continent very fast,” he said.

 

Mrs Assetou Djibo, an entrepreneur from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, said collaboration among ESBC members was crucial to boosting their economic growth and achieving the objectives of ECOWAS economic integration.

 

“We are here to take action to fight against the forces inhibiting the growth of SMEs in West Africa.

 

“Collaboration among our members is critical to achieving the ECOWAS goal of economic integration,” she said.

For Dr Ebiekure Eradiri, President of the All Africa Association of MSMEs, said standardisation of MSME products by ensuring that they are “concurrent, uniform and acceptable” across the subregion, was key to the ESBCs success.

 

“While we appreciate the efforts and the inputs, standardisation is key.

 

“So, for businesses where SMEs are able to engage products across the West African region, we must be sure that our standards are concurrent, uniform and acceptable among ourselves.

 

“What you make of your goods for it to be acceptable in another country in West Africa is dependent on the rules and regulations of that country and we are saying that we must also think about a universal framework,” he said.

 

Ms Loido Monteiro from Cape Verde, CEO, Smart Cities Project, and ESBC Vice President, said the coalition aimed at collaborating to bring their products to new markets within ECOWAS and the world.

 

She said that through partnerships with other companies, they would grow their markets and companies, create jobs and produce ECOWAS’ future millionaires.

 

“We already have some products that we are ready to sell and we have countries that want to buy, so we are in a good state.

 

“While we have challenges of transport, and finance, we believe if we are together we can resolve these challenges and do business together, with ECOWAS’ support,” she said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Dabiri-Erewa applauds NiDO-Americas for promoting interest of Nigerians abroad

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By Fortune Abang

Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the  Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), on Tuesday, applauded the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation-Americas (NiDOA) for advancing the common interest of compatriots living abroad.

Dabiri-Erewa praised the NiDOA leadership in a virtual address during the NiDOA 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Conference with the theme: “New Nigeria: Fresh Progress, Vision of United NiDO” held in the U.S.

She praised the leadership of NiDOA for the efforts it has been investing to foster unity among Nigerians living abroad.

“Amidst challenges NiDO faced at the last AGM, a lot has been achieved in one year.

“We want NiDOA to continue to set the pace for advancing unity among Nigerians living abroad.

“So we look forward to working with you and encouraging all of you.

“I appeal that we all work together along with President Bola Tinubu, who is willing to work with and for NiDO in moving Nigeria forward,” the NiDCOM chair said.

On the need to establish a Diaspora Board, Dabiri-Erewa explained that all statutory boards could be constituted only by the President.

According to her, former President Muhammadu Buhari did not constitute some boards while in office, including the NiDCOM board.

She added that President Tinubu would constitute the NiDO Board at the appointed time.

“To cut down the cost of governance, NIDCOM has now become an agency.

“What this means is that I don’t know whether there is going to be a board for it or not.

“I want to encourage you to stay united; unity is the keyword. NiDO has achieved so much more than we have been doing in the past.

“I want to thank you and wish you a successful AGM.

“More so, let us continue to promote a united NiDOA to set the pace for every other organisation in the diaspora,” she said.

In his speech, Amb. Abubakar Jidda, Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, congratulated NiDOA for organising the AGM.

According to him, the AGM makes it easy for everyone to see NiDO’s activities.

He expressed gratitude to Dr Victor Ubani, the Continental Chair of NiDOA, and his team for organising the conference.

“We lend our voice to some issues and challenges Nigeria is experiencing, and to see how we can ensure we have stronger organisations that are ready to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

“In moving the nation forward we should be setting the pace for other countries and regions.

“The consulate is ready to support NiDOA in achieving its set objectives.

“We can work closely together to set the standard for other countries across the world, which is one thing I look forward to achieving,” Egopija said.

Ubani who is also the Coordinating Chairman of NiDO Worldwide promised to build on the gains the organisation has so far achieved.

“We are forging ahead and forming a new path to rebrand, and take NiDO to greater heights.

“We can do that by being patriotic and working together to ensure national growth.

“I call on everyone to collaborate with us so that we can realise the desired goals we have set.

“Let us see what we can do by coming together as Nigerians to move our country forward,” Ubani said. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

ECOWAS Court pledges greater efficiency ahead 2025

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By Mark Longyen

The ECOWAS Court of Justice (ECCJ) has pledged to enhance its performance and efficiency by 2025, even as it deals with notable financial and operational hurdles.

Justice Ricardo Gonçalves, the President of the court, said this at the opening of the 2024 Judicial Retreat in Abuja on Monday, with the theme ‘Judicial Case Management’.

He noted that financial constraints, stemming from some member states’ failure to meet their financial obligations, have placed the institution under strain.

These challenges, he said are compounded by the anticipated departure of three member states, which could result in significant budgetary cuts and operational setbacks.

“These difficulties require us to think creatively and allocate our resources with precision.

“For the first time, due to financial constraints, participation in certain activities has been limited to a smaller in-person group, while others will join remotely.

“This reflects the serious financial challenges the Community is facing. Until the situation improves, we must significantly scale back our activities”.

Gonçalves expressed confidence in the Court’s leadership and its ability to navigate the crisis.

He emphasised the need to remain committed to the institution’s founding principles while adapting to contemporary realities, such as adopting virtual meetings and minimising unnecessary expenditures.

He described the retreat as a crucial platform for reflection, collaboration, and innovation aimed at enhancing the Court’s practices and fostering regional integration.

The President called on judges, directors, and staff to actively engage in discussions and decision-making processes during the retreat.

He stressed that their contributions are vital to addressing the institution’s challenges and strengthening its operational framework.

Dr Yaouza Ouro-Sama, the ECCJ Chief Registrar, also outlined the objectives of the retreat, organised by the Registry Department as part of the Court’s annual activities.

He stated that the event provides an opportunity to reflect on judicial practices and improve case management.

Referring to Article 32 of the Protocol on the Court, Ouro-Sama highlighted the Court’s authority to establish its own rules of procedure.

He underlined the importance of foundational texts, such as the Rules of Procedure and practical directives, in shaping the Court’s operations.

The Chief Registrar stressed the need for clear guidelines to address existing gaps, particularly in harmonising discrepancies between common law and civil law practices.

He also called for improved coordination between the judges’ chambers, the Registry, and the Research and Documentation Department.

The retreat’s theme, centered on judicial case management, includes sub-themes addressing execution rates, standardisation of rulings, translation of decisions, and collaboration between departments.

“Interactive discussions and expert presentations are expected to yield actionable solutions for these challenges, which will be proposed to the College of Judges”.

He described the event as an opportunity to refine processes and practices, ultimately leading to more effective operations within the ECCJ.

Ouro-Sama thanked the President, Vice President, and Judges for their support and approval of the retreat’s agenda.

According to the organisers, as the retreat progresses, it is anticipated to pave the way for a more resilient and efficient Court, ensuring its sustainability and continued contribution to regional integration and justice.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

ECOWAS entrepreneurs seek railway corridor

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Participants at the ECOWAS Small Business Coalition (ESBC) workshop/exhibition in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.(NAN)

 

 

By Mark Longyen

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the aegis of ECOWAS Small Business Coalition (ESBC), have proposed the creation of a railway corridor connecting all ECOWAS countries, in addition to the existing road network.

 

They made the call at the end of their inaugural exhibition and workshop which held from Nov. 21 to Nov. 23, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

 

The event was organised by ESBC, in collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission and Ivory Coast’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The coalition noted the difficulties that the small business operators face in transporting their goods and services between and among member states and emphasised the need for improved communication about cross-border trade obligations.

 

It, however, notes the clarification by ECOWAS that the movement of goods and people within the subregion is free in line with existing protocols but is not exempt from formalities and customs duties.

 

The coalition also proposed solutions to the challenges of transporting the SME’s goods to include the need to end cross-border harassment and corruption due to unnecessary “taxes.”

Members also proposed the empowering of local SBCs to enable them issue certificates of origin to entrepreneurs, as well as the establishing of online training sessions for their capacity building.

 

The coalition also proposed the creation of a railway corridor connecting all ECOWAS countries, in addition to the existing road network.

 

According to the coalition, access to information is key to SMEs’s success, hence, the need to raise awareness, adding that they should leverage the recently unveiled African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and ECOWAS policies.

 

It also emphasised the need for the harmonisation of fiscal rule across ECOWAS, as well as the need for SMEs to choose appropriate business models and consulting advisory firms.

 

The report notes that much remains to be done to improve competitiveness through innovation and sustainability to push SMEs beyond borders, while proposing training them on certification, efficient technology transfer and increasing research.

The coalition further noted that financing was at the core of SMEs’ challenges because while financing mechanisms are in place, SMEs’ absorption capacities are difficult, as many are ill-equipped to leverage these mechanisms.

 

They, therefore, proposed to focus on promoting innovation and new business models that would fit African realities, such as reimagining economic development models and learning from BRICS approaches.

 

The group also proposed the establishing of an ESBC television; a bank for SME financing; the designing of strategies to encourage the creation of a common currency; and lifting of customs and monetary barriers.

 

The coalition also proposed the creation of international shipping lines, establishing clear legislation or regulations applicable to all ECOWAS states, as well as facilitating access to ports for landlocked countries.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

edited by Sadiya Hamza

Investment in livestock ’ll turn tragedy to economic opportunity – Tinubu

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu says his administration’s renewed focus in driving international and local investments into the livestock sector will end farmer-herder clashes.

Tinubu said this on Thursday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Nigerian Government and the JBS S.A, one of the top three largest meat processing companies globally.

“What we are doing right now is that we are solving a problem that afflicts humanity in that part of Africa.

“Clashes between farmers and migrating cows that have caused some lives and bloodshed when there is a modern, civilized way to solve those problems and even bring a successful economy out of it.

“We are trying to turn a situation of tragedy, hopelessness into economic opportunity, see through problems and see the opportunity that is involved in it,” he said.

The Nigerian leader called on the company to see the considerable potential in the $2.5 billion livestock investment opportunities in Nigeria, especially with its huge population and tap into it.

“We’ve heard so much about you in terms of the reputation, and we believe in the partnership we are forging today.

“Food security is extremely important. As we talk right now, there is hunger. However, there is huge hope. And you are one of those hopes that we are looking at,” said the president.

He told the JBS top executives that Nigeria was ready to do business with them, assuring them of a good return on their investment.

Prior to his visit to Brazil, the president had commissioned a team of Nigerian officials and private sector players to take advantage of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio to conduct a study tour of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

He charged them to explore the opportunities in livestock development, meat processing, seed development and multiplication for key grains.

In his remarks, Idi Maiha, the Minister of Livestock Development, who led the delegation, said the team embarked on extended tours of companies on their operations, as well as the deployment of technology.

He added that from their interactions with various companies, JBS S.A. was chosen being the second largest meat processing company in the world.

Maiha said the company had the capacity to process 33,000 cattle daily and over eight million birds daily, using advanced zero-waste practices.

The company employs over 200,000 people across its subsidiaries in more than 50 countries in the world including United States, Canada, Mexico, Saudi Arabia among others.

Mr Wesley Batista, founder and President of the JBS group, said the company was the largest employer of labour in Brazil with over $79 billion dollars revenue already in 2024.

“We are glad to work with Nigeria to work together to develop the livestock industry there.

“We think it’s a good opportunity for our business in Nigeria and Africa as we believe Nigeria can be the center of supply of protein to many countries in Africa.

“We look forward to working with you. We are almost in December and this year is almost gone. We hope to be in Nigeria as soon as possible,” he said.

Other members of the delegation included Hon. Aliyu Sabi-Abdullahi, Minister of State, Agriculture and Food Security as well as  Prof. Attahiru Jega,, Co-chairman Presidential Livestock Reform Committee.

Others were: Prof. Mohammed Yahya, the Secretary of the Committee and Aisha Rimi, Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Investment Promotion Council. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

ECOWAS tasks subregional  entrepreneurs on trade growth

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By Mark Longyen

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called on West African entrepreneurs to strengthen subregional trade, saying it is collaborating with the private sector to boost subregional economic growth.

 

Dr Omar Touray, President of the Commission, made this known at the inaugural edition of the ECOWAS Small Business Coalition (ESBC) Exhibition and Conference in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on Thursday.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day fair brought together West African Micro, Small and Medium Entreprises (MSMEs) to showcase their products, and explore collaborative opportunities for growth.

 

Touray, represented by Dr Tony Elumelu, ECOWAS Director, Private Sector, described the event as a crucial step in preparing the subregion to actively participate in the recently unveiled African Continental Free Trade Authority (AfCFTA).

 

He reminded the entrepreneurs of the importance of regional integration in driving economic growth and development and called on them to leverage the opportunities provided by AfCFTA to achieve success.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a unique opportunity for our region to increase trade, investment, and economic cooperation.

 

“This fair is a crucial step in preparing our subregion to actively participate in the AfCFTA.

 

“The ECOWAS Commission has been working closely with critical stakeholders to facilitate the private sector.

 

“We have engaged with regional business associations, such as FEBWE, FEWACCI, MAN, and FOPAO, to support businesses and promote regional economic integration,” Touray said.

He said that ECOWAS had also developed an MSME Charter, which is a landmark document to promote the growth and development of MSMEs in West Africa.

 

According to him, the Charter focuses on a broad spectrum of intervention areas, including enterprise education, regional collaborations, regulatory enhancements, promotion of specialised development corridors, and crucial financial assistance for MSMEs.

 

He said that it also addresses issues relating to support for women in business, recognising the critical role that women play in driving economic growth and development in the region.

 

“To further support businesses, ECOWAS is developing a text on regional economic zones, with the support of the World Bank through its implementing agency, IFC.

 

“ECOWAS has also adopted a regulation on the ECOWAS Business Council with clear criteria for composition.

 

“I am confident that this fair will pave the way for increased cross-border trade, regional integration, and economic growth in our subregion,” Touray added.

Also speaking, Dr Abdulrashid Yerima, President, ESBC, said the event was organised to celebrate the “modest achievements” of MSMEs in the subregion and reaffirm their commitments to fostering a united, and thriving ECOWAS.

 

He disclosed that the group was about to create a comprehensive database of MSMEs across ECOWAS states that would serve as a foundation for understanding the needs, addressing the challenges, and fostering growth.

 

Yerima said the coalition was dedicated to overcoming barriers to cross-border trade, streamlining processes, providing access to finance and markets, and ensuring that MSMEs succeed in both regional and global markets.

 

“Today, we are reminded of the importance of regional integration in driving economic growth and development.

 

“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a unique opportunity for our region to increase trade, investment, and economic cooperation.

 

“This exhibition is more than just a gathering; it is a crucial step in preparing our subregion to actively participate in the AfCFTA,” he said.

 

The ESBC President noted that by fostering collaboration among SMEs, governments, and stakeholders, they would lay the groundwork for ECOWAS to become a leading contributor to Africa’s continental trade ambitions.

 

Dr Souleymane Diarrassoba, Ivory Coast’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, thanked ECOWAS for choosing the country to host the event, and pledged to collaborate towards the subregion’s integration and development.

 

Represented by Mr Silvere Konan, Director General, SMEs, he said SMEs were essential for national industrial development due to their immense potential value creation, lasting employment, and wealth development.

 

Diarrassoba noted that SMEs could play a much more important role in economic development, hence, the Ivorian government’s support for all initiatives of promoting, developing and strengthening them.

 

Mrs Fanta Cisse, ECOWAS Resident Representative to Ivory Coast, in a remark, explained that the event was designed to encourage regional integration through different measures and rules that exist in the context of regional integration.

She said it was a remarkable success because all ECOWAS’ 15 member countries, including the so-called Sahel’s Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, attended.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

We’ll continue to prioritise social investment programmes, Tinubu tells IMF MD

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu says his administration will continue to prioritise the welfare of the poor and most vulnerable.

The President stated this on Wednesday night in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), paid him a courtesy call on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

While acknowledging that the reforms had weakened Nigerians’ purchasing power, President Tinubu said his administration would continue to provide social safety nets to cushion the unintended consequences.

Congratulating the IMF Chief on her election for a second term in office, Tinubu appreciated her support in implementing the reforms, calling for more institutional backing for stability and sustainable growth.

“We have started seeing positive results from our reforms, and the Nigerian people now understand the need for them, but we have to reduce the hardship that has resulted from the implementation,” he said.

He emphasised the critical need for educational access.

“We have too many children out of school, and we know that education is a way out of hunger and poverty.

“That is why we are designing ways and incentives to keep these children in school, and we need your support for these kids who want to stay in school,” he told the IMF chief.

Tinubu stressed that substantial resources must be invested to stimulate the much-needed infrastructural development in the country.

The President further noted that Nigeria was working on tax reforms to stimulate the economy further.

“We are engaging stakeholders and sensitising Nigerians to expand the economy’s tax base for inclusive developmental growth.

“We are doing this without necessarily increasing the taxes on our people who have already given a lot. We will require your support on this,” he said.

In her remarks, the IMF Managing Director, who expressed a desire to visit Nigeria, commended the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.

She assured the President of further support in diversifying the Nigerian economy.

She specifically lauded the social investment programmes as a way of cushioning the effects on the most vulnerable and promised the assistance of the body in this regard.

Contrary to popular perception, she said the IMF was focused on developing vulnerable societies and devoting substantial resources to emerging economies.

The managing director expressed the Fund’s readiness to offer technical support for the budgeting process, adding that it would assist Nigeria in achieving the best possible results from loans.

Georgieva said the world had suffered some shocks from the pandemic that caused damage to world economies.

She said over the last two years, the IMF had injected about 1 trillion dollars into the world economy.

“While the developed countries managed the shocks better, the developing nations did not do so,” she noted.

She said the IMF was working with developing countries to build resilient institutions to better manage future global economic shocks.

She stressed that it was the right of every country to benefit from the Fund after a critical analysis of its priorities.

The IMF Managing Director informed President Tinubu that the organisation’s Executive Board had approved the 3rd Chair for Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA), enhancing the African voice.

She congratulated Nigeria for hosting the IMF’s African Caucus meeting in Abuja in August.
Georgieva also advocated deepening regional economic ties, assuring that the IMF was ready to support the process. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

G20 leaders: Changing the face of the world

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An analysis by Salif Atojoko, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

As the curtains were drawn on the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Nov. 19, the collective aspiration of the participants was the implementation of key resolutions that would change the face of the world.

The G20 leaders, in their final declaration, called for a ceasefire in Gaza, advocating taxing the super-rich, promoting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and gender equality.

The global eggheads reaffirmed that all states must act consistently with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter in its entirety.

They stated that all states must refrain from threat or use of force to seek territorial acquisition against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state.

“We are united in support of a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza, in compliance with the UN Security Council Resolution No. 2735, and in Lebanon, allowing citizens to safely return home on both sides of the Blue Line,” the G20 leaders declared.

They affirmed the Palestinian right to self-determination, and reiterated their commitment to a two-state solution, where Israel and a Palestinian state lived side by side in peace.

For an equitable world, the G20 leaders drew the gauntlet against the super rich, proposing that ultra-high-net-worth individuals are “effectively taxed,” even though respecting their fiscal sovereignty.

They said this would be achieved through cooperation, which may involve exchanging best practices, stimulating debate on tax principles, and developing mechanisms against tax evasion, including addressing potentially harmful tax practices.

In the face of multifaceted crises, where political and geopolitical tensions threaten the ability to tackle challenges such as promoting growth, reducing poverty, and combating climate change, the G20 leaders advocated multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow and strengthening global governance for present and future generations.

In their final declaration, they stated that “there will be no sustainability or prosperity without peace” and recalled that the G20 was born out of financial and economic crises.

The G20 leaders were also concerned about the rapid advancement of AI, which promises prosperity and the expansion of the global digital economy.

The global leaders urged safe, secure, and trustworthy development, deployment and use of AI, insisting that such deployment should guaranty human rights protection, transparency and explainability, fairness, accountability, regulation and safety.

The group added that appropriate human oversight, ethics, biases, privacy, data protection, and data governance must be addressed.

The G20 leaders also cited their total commitment to gender equality and empowerment of all women and girls by promoting equality in paid and unpaid care work to ensure the full and meaningful participation of women in the economy.

They said this would promote social and gender co-responsibility, encourage and facilitate the equal involvement of men and boys in care work, and challenge gender norms that hindered equitable distribution and redistribution of care responsibilities.

The summit highlighted the 2024 motto: “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet,” focusing on reducing inequalities and fostering socially just and environmentally sustainable actions.

The G20 leaders were also keen on protecting the environment, declaring their renewed commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century and to significantly increase renewable energy and global energy efficiency by 2030.

The summit also launched the Global Task Force for Climate Change Mobilisation to strengthen climate financing, especially in developing countries.

The declaration states that countries will strive to mobilise new and additional financing from all sources for forests, including concessional and “innovative” financing for developing countries.

Fittingly, the G20 leaders inaugurated the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, to promote strategies like income transfers, school feeding programmes, and access to microcredit for the poor and vulnerable.

The G20 leaders’ declaration reinforced the need to modernise the World Trade Organisation (WTO), to promote a rule-based, fair, and sustainable multilateral trading system.

“The G20 supports a reform in the dispute resolution system accessible to all members and highlighted the role of trade in inclusive economic growth.

“Ensuring level playing fields and fair competition consistent with the WTO rules is essential to guarantee prosperity and foster a conducive environment for trade and investment for all.

“We reiterate the centrality of the WTO’s development dimension,” the leaders stated.

The G20 countries advocated an expanded composition of the Security Council to enhance the representation of underrepresented and unrepresented regions and groups, such as Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

They also highlighted the need for resilient health systems, sustainable financing, and equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments, especially for neglected diseases.

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria could not agree any less. He said the G20, having admitted the African Union as a group member, should expand its permanent and non-permanent member categories to reflect the world’s diversity and plurality.

“The Security Council should expand its permanent and non-permanent member categories to reflect the world’s diversity and plurality better.

“Africa deserves priority in this process, and two permanent seats should be allocated to it with equal rights and responsibilities. Nigeria stands ready and willing to serve as a representative of Africa in this capacity,” said Tinubu.

Indeed, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil believes that the G20 members have the power and responsibility to transform many lives across the world.

He enjoined members to foster entrepreneurship and economic autonomy for women, as championed by the Women’s Empowerment Working Group.

If the declarations of the G20 leaders, rising from their just concluded summit in Rio de Janeiro are implemented, the world may not remain the same again. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

……………… If used, credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

China urges Nigeria to prioritise investment in tourism

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By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counselor, Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has called on Nigeria to prioritise investment in safety, infrastructure and tourism promotion, in order to drive economic growth and development.

Yang made the call on Tuesday in Abuja during a seminar on Nigeria-China Tourism, Hospitality, and Culture 2024 themed: “Promoting Nigeria-China Tourism, Hospitality, Cultural Potentials and Services for Sustainable Development”.

Yang, who is also the Director of the China Cultural Centre, emphasised that Nigeria’s tourism sector had the potential of enhancing GDP and fostering sustainable development.

According to him, tourism not only contributes to economic growth but also fosters cultural exchange and strengthens international friendships.

“Nigeria, as the most populous country in Africa, boasts a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural assets, such as music, dance, art, and clothing.

“Tourism has immense potential to drive development,” Yang said.

“I hope more Chinese tourists will visit Nigeria to experience its vibrant culture, art, and natural beauty,” he said.

Yang also underscored China’s accomplishments in the tourism sector.

He said China recorded 4.89 million domestic tourists, 87.63 million outbound tourists, and 82.03 million inbound tourists in 2023, with further growth seen in 2024.

Yang also presented a global perspective referencing the World Travel and Tourism Council’s 2022 report.

It predicts an average annual growth rate of 5.8 per cent for the global tourism industry over the next decade, outpacing the global economic growth rate of 2.7 per cent.

On his part, Mr Cui Guang-Zhen, Director General of the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, echoed the call for more investments in tourism.

He also highlighted Nigeria’s cultural diversity, saying: “with over 100 languages, Nigeria is rich in cultural and tourism resources.

“Nigerian music, featuring global stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid, is already a worldwide sensation.

“However, more investment is needed to harness its tourism potential,” he said.

Cui, who has lived in Nigeria for a decade and visited popular destinations like Calabar, emphasised the need for infrastructural development and targeted initiatives to attract international visitors.

Mr Raphael Obi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, noted the transformative power of the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Obi, represented by Blessing Ogar, said: “these industries are pivotal drivers of economic growth, reducing unemployment and empowering underserved communities, particularly youth and women.”

Obi praised China’s integration of tourism and cultural heritage into its economic framework, citing it as a model for Nigeria.

“This seminar provides a timely platform to exchange ideas and foster partnerships that will benefit both nations,” he added.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Mark Longyen

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