News Agency of Nigeria
China donates m to support Nigeria’s flood victims
Foreign

China donates $1m to support Nigeria’s flood victims

By Sarafina Christopher/ Nana Musa

 

China has donated one million dollars to Nigeria in support of people affected by the recent devastating floods across the country.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the support was provided at a ceremony for the signing of exchange of notes with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to formalise the cash assistance grant in Abuja on Wednesday.

 

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai, expressed China’s solidarity with Nigeria “during this difficult time”, noting that both countries have recently faced natural disasters.

 

“We would like to express our deep condolences for the people who lost their lives and also express our support.

 

“Actually, almost at the same time, China is also suffering from floods. In times of difficulty, China and Nigeria always stand together,” he said.

 

He stressed that the assistance testifies to China’s confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, saying: “We are very confident that under the strong leadership of the Federal Government, and with the quality and efforts of all the people, Nigeria will overcome this difficulty and rebuild their homes in the near future.”

 

Yu further highlighted the broader direction of China-Nigeria relations, describing the ties as grounded in mutual respect and equality.

 

He acknowledged the robust progress recorded between the two countries in the areas of trade, investment, multilateral cooperation, and people-to-people exchange.

 

“As ambassador, I am happy that our comprehensive strategic partnership has been developing on a fast track.

 

“Just two months ago, President Xi Jinping announced zero-tariff treatment on 400 per cent of tariff lines for African countries with diplomatic ties to China, including Nigeria.

 

“This will boost Nigeria’s exports to China, create more jobs, and support economic development,” he said.

 

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, stated that the assistance was particularly timely as it is targeted at communities in states most affected by recent floods.

 

He said that the intervention would go a long way towards complementing government’s ongoing efforts at providing relief materials and rebuilding the livelihoods of people in severely impacted areas.

 

“I wish to emphasise that the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, in collaboration with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), will coordinate the effective implementation of this project.

 

“A transparent framework, leveraging past experiences and unified templates, will guide the process to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries in the most efficient and impactful manner.

 

“Furthermore, the government fully welcomes the joint monitoring and evaluation mechanism agreed with the Embassy of China.

 

“This will ensure transparency and accountability, promote learning, and strengthen our partnership in humanitarian and development cooperation,” Bagudu said.

 

The minister said the humanitarian support was not only a demonstration of China’s goodwill, but also a testimony of the growing cooperation between the two nations in areas such as trade, infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and now, disaster relief.

 

“It is our firm belief that today’s signing ceremony will open new windows of collaboration that will deepen our strategic partnership for the mutual benefit of our people.

 

” I assure you that the government remains committed to working closely with the embassy of China to guarantee the successful implementation of this project.

 

“We look forward to further consolidating our friendship through initiatives that promote prosperity, resilience, and sustainable development.

 

“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I wish to convey our profound appreciation to the Government of China for this act of friendship and solidarity.

 

“This gesture is a reflection of the long-standing bilateral relations between our two dear countries, built on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision for sustainable development.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)*

CTBTO canvasses collective approach to prevent nuclear testing
Foreign

CTBTO canvasses collective approach to prevent nuclear testing

By Fortune Abang

The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) has underscored the need for collective approach to tackle nuclear testing and prevent future tests.

This is contained in a joint statement on Monday by Mr Philémon Yang, President, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and Dr Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary, CTBTO, during the UNGA’s seventy-ninth session.

The theme of the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the first nuclear weapon test theme is: Trinity to Today: Turning the page on Nuclear Testing.”

They said that UNGA declared Aug. 29 as the International Day Against Nuclear Tests, to commemorate the closing of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site in present-day Kazakhstan on the same date in 1991.

According to them, 456 nuclear test explosions occurred over four decades, saying in 1945, two historic developments reshaped the course of global diplomacy.

The UNGA and CTBTO chiefs said the first was the establishment of the United Nations in October, following the signing of its Charter in June.

“This day is a solemn reminder that nuclear testing must become a relic of the past and on this Day, we must summon the courage and conviction to bring the CTBT into force.

“The path ahead will not be easy. The current global climate is fraught with tension and uncertainty, but complacency is not an option.

“A return to nuclear testing would almost certainly spark a dangerous arms race, one that undermines the purposes for which the United Nations was founded,” they said.

They noted that the arms race would threaten every community, every nation, every ecosystem and indeed, the very planet we call home.

“Looking ahead, two milestones approach if no nuclear test is conducted by Jan. 14, 2026, the world will set a record for the longest period without nuclear test since 1945.

”In Sept. 24, 2026, we will mark the 30th anniversary of CTBT’s opening for signature,” the UN officials said.

They said that over the past eight decades the progress made proved that change was possible when the international community united around principled, transparent and honest policies on ending nuclear testing.

The stressed the need to also meet this moment with not just realism, but also with hope, adding that a safer world for everyone, everywhere was within reach if people chose it together.

“This act of collective hope laid the foundation for international cooperation and a more peaceful and secure world.

“The second was the first-ever nuclear test explosion, known as Trinity, conducted in New Mexico on July 16, 1945.

”It was soon followed by the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which exposed the full harrowing consequences of nuclear warfare,” they said.

“Even as the world began to embrace a new international order, the threat of nuclear annihilation remained ever-present.

“From the outset, addressing this threat became a core responsibility of the United Nations and the broader international community.

“This concern was clearly reflected in the first action of the UNGA Resolution 1 (I), adopted on Jan. 24, 1946, called for the elimination of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction from national arsenals,” they added.

The officials also decried the alarming scale of nuclear weapons testing, saying that between 1945 and 1996 not less than 2,000 nuclear tests were conducted across the globe, averaging at least one test every nine days.

They noted that nuclear weapons when detonated on land, underground, in the air and underwater resulted in radioactive fallout, environmental harm and impacts on human health which persist across generations.

Such should not be allowed to continue, they added, adding that the opening for signature of CTBT) in 1996 marked the right step in the right direction.

They further said that about 187 nation-states had signed the Treaty and 178 had ratified it with nine states ratifying and one signing in the past three years. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Nigeria, Brazil sign MoUs, Tinubu urges Petrobras’ return
Foreign

Nigeria, Brazil sign MoUs, Tinubu urges Petrobras’ return

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎Nigeria and Brazil on Monday signed five strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in key sectors, aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s economic development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the signing took place in Brasília, witnessed by President Bola Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

The MoUs cover aviation, foreign affairs, science and technology, and the Bank of Agriculture, marking a renewed phase of bilateral cooperation.

After the signing, President Tinubu strongly urged Brazilian oil giant Petrobras to resume operations in Nigeria.

“We have the largest deposit of gas. I don’t see why Petrobras will not be back in Nigeria very soon,” he said.

Tinubu stressed that Petrobras’ return was key to unlocking Nigeria’s gas potential and stimulating growth.

Reflecting on past relations, Tinubu admitted there had been setbacks but emphasised a new beginning for both nations.

“We’ve allowed past problems and inactivities to hinder progress. Today we say that is the end of that,” he declared.

He recalled that this was his third visit to Brazil, having previously engaged on G20 partnerships and climate issues.

Tinubu described the current dialogue as both “emotionally laden and fact-based,” thanking President da Silva for renewed cooperation.

“We’re working hard to raise our sovereignty to the expected level. Nigeria, the most populous and dynamic country, must share with Brazil,” he said.

Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s economic and technological renewal, driven by partnerships such as Brazil’s.

He stressed that technology transfer, scientific collaboration, and food sovereignty must underpin the new alliance.

The President also identified Brazil’s pharmaceutical leadership as a model Nigeria could adopt.

“I don’t see why manufacturing of generic drugs, which Brazil excels in, cannot also take place in Nigeria,” he added.

Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s ongoing reforms were necessary and already yielding results.

He emphasised the need to strengthen aviation links between both countries, saying this would enhance trade and economic opportunities.

Earlier, President da Silva reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to deepening trade, agriculture, and cultural ties with Nigeria.

He hailed the planned direct flight between Lagos and São Paulo as a major step toward a “cultural renaissance.”

Da Silva also endorsed Nigeria’s bid for G20 membership and a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, citing its growing global influence.

He praised Nigeria’s cooperation in law enforcement and its support for Brazil’s Interpol executive body membership.

The Brazilian leader further urged joint action on climate change ahead of COP 30, stressing Africa’s heavy burden despite its minimal emissions. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Tinubu receives full military honours in Brazil
Foreign

Tinubu receives full military honours in Brazil

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu received a full military welcome on Monday during his official visit to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Planalto Palace, Brasília.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a colourful guard of honour, meticulously drilled, ushered in the Nigerian leader.

President da Silva formally welcomed Tinubu, exchanged pleasantries, posed for photographs, and introduced his ministers. Tinubu reciprocated by presenting his delegation, largely composed of cabinet ministers.

After the ceremony, both leaders held a private discussion, followed by bilateral talks involving key ministers from both countries and the signing of Memoranda of Understanding.

Tinubu, who arrived in Brasília earlier on Monday, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with the South American powerhouse.

In a post on his official X handle, Tinubu described the meeting as a strategic moment in Nigeria-Brazil relations.

“Today’s engagement marks the renewal of the historic relationship between Nigeria and Brazil.

“I look forward to working with President Lula to deepen cooperation in agriculture, energy, trade, and culture, towards building a future of shared prosperity,” he said.

NAN also reports that Tinubu will attend the Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum, a major highlight of his official programme in the Brazilian capital. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for state visit
Foreign

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for state visit

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu arrived in Brasília early Monday for a two-day state visit aimed at deepening Nigeria-Brazil relations.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the presidential aircraft, Nigerian Air Force One (NAF-001), nicknamed “Eagle One,” touched down at Brasília International Airport around 12:30 a.m. local time, 4. 30 a.m. (Nigerian time).

‎Tinubu was received by Carlos Duarte, Secretary for Africa and the Middle East, Carlos José Moreno Garcete, Ambassador of Brazil to Nigeria and top Nigerian government officials including
‎Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

‎The President then proceeded directly to his hotel where he will be based during the visit.
‎

‎At his hotel, he was received by Speaker of House of Representative, Tajudeen Abass, Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State and Gov. Caleb Mutfwang.

‎Others present are:Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole.

‎Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha and Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji were also present, among others.

‎NAN reports that the Nigerian leader is scheduled to meet with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and other senior Brazilian officials on Monday at the
Planalto Palace.

‎The leaders will witness the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and address a joint press conference afterwards.

‎As part of his engagements, President Tinubu will meet with the President of the Brazilian Senate at the National Congress, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.

‎He will also participate in the Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum as part of a packed programme in Brasília on Monday.

‎President Tinubu’s agenda will focus on boosting cooperation in aviation, agribusiness, livestock, security, trade, and cultural exchange with the Latin America’s largest economy.

‎Key discussions will also explore partnerships in agriculture, energy transition, regional security and areas of mutual strategic interest.

‎A major highlight will be the signing of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) for direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil.

‎Breakout sessions and sideline meetings involving Nigerian ministries will complement the high-level talks.

‎NAN recalls that President Tinubu led Nigeria’s delegation to the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro in July and, on President Lula’s invitation, attended the G20 Summit in Brazil in November 2024.

‎Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and his wife, Maria Lúcia Alckmin, visited Abuja for the Second Session of the Mechanism for Strategic Dialogue in June.
‎

‎Nigeria and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2013 to establish the Mechanism for Strategic Dialogue to foster cooperation in agriculture, trade, defence, energy, education, power, petroleum, and mining.

‎The Dialogue is co-chaired by the Vice Presidents of both countries and alternates annually.

‎The Second Session of the Mechanism for Strategic Dialogue occurred in Abuja in June. This resulted in the signing of seven MoUs, including agreements on the Strategic Dialogue Mechanism Cooperation Renewal, Defence Cooperation, Energy, Tourism, Audio-Visual Co-Production, Livestock Development, and Counternarcotics.

‎Brazil is a key partner in Nigeria’s food security programme. The $2.5 billion JBS investment to strengthen food security and develop sustainable supply chains was signed in Brazil during President Tinubu’s participation at the 2024 G20 Leaders’ Summit.

‎The project aims to boost local production and create job opportunities for Nigerian youth.

‎The Green Imperative Programme (GIP), a $1.1 billion agricultural mechanisation project launched in 2019, is also on course. It aims to supply 10,000 tractors and 50,000 units of farm equipment for assembly in Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
‎

‎Nigeria: Why Brazil? Yes, Brazil
Features , Foreign

‎Nigeria: Why Brazil? Yes, Brazil

By Sunday Dare
‎
‎Three visits in less than a year. That is not mere coincidence, it is deliberate strategy. And as usual, disingenuous reportage from a section of the press is insinuating some obsession of President Tinubu with Brazil. Well, Yes. But It is an obsession in pursuit of economic partnerships and opportunities for Nigeria.  And that’s what visionary leaders do.
‎
‎The deeper truth, however, lies in a deliberate arc of diplomacy — one that connects Nigeria’s voice in global governance to concrete opportunities for investment, trade, and cooperation.
‎
‎President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will undertake his third visit to Brazil from August 24–25, 2025, at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, one of our biggest supporters and partners.
‎
‎This two-day State Visit will feature bilateral meetings, a Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum with leading investors, and the signing of key agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen cooperation across agriculture, energy, technology, aviation, renewable energy and cultural exchange.
‎
‎A strategic arc from G20 to BRICS to a State Visit: The first visit of President Tinubu to Brazil was in November 2024: for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Rio de Janeiro from November 18-19, 2024. The President was at the summit which focused on ‘Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet,’ a gathering that was convened to tackle major global challenges like poverty, hunger, energy transition, and sustainable development.
‎
‎At that forum, Tinubu gracefully advocated for reforming global governance structures, continuing Nigeria’s long-standing call for fairer representation of developing nations in decision-making institutions.
‎
‎The sophomore visit was barely a month ago from 6th-7th of July for the BRICS Summit, in Brasília. At this 17th BRICS Summit, President Tinubu participated as the leader of a Partner Country- a membership category short of full status but significant, nonetheless.
‎
‎This BRICS summit focused on ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance’ with discussions centering on social, economic, and environmental development. President Tinubu’s message rang out clearly : Nigeria cannot remain a passive observer in the evolving global order — it must be an active shaper of a fairer and more inclusive system.
‎
‎“Nigeria strongly believes in South-South cooperation. We can, therefore, not be passive participants in global decision-making on financial restructuring, debt forgiveness, climate change, environmental issues, and healthcare”.
‎
‎And now, this august visit in August 2025- this State Visit marks the transition from diplomacy to deals. Beyond dialogue, the focus will be activating multi-billion-dollar agricultural investments, advancing joint initiatives like the $1.1 billion Green Imperative mechanization project and securing new flows of FDI into Nigeria’s agriculture and energy sectors. It is also about deepening political trust, expanding cultural exchange, and harnessing shared opportunities in renewable energy, climate resilience, and digital transformation.
‎
‎Why Nigeria and Brazil Must Work Together
‎
‎Brazil is Latin America’s largest economy and a global agricultural powerhouse. Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies  with vast arable land and a young, dynamic population. Both are leaders of the Global South with converging aspirations in South–South cooperation.
‎
‎Together, we face common challenges — and opportunities:
‎•Food Security: Brazil’s advanced mechanization and Nigeria’s fertile land create a powerful synergy.
‎•Climate Change & Energy Transition: Both countries share vulnerabilities, requiring joint innovation in renewables and green finance.
‎•Global Trade Realignment: With uncertainties around U.S. AGOA renewal, BRICS-linked trade and currency channels are becoming vital.
‎•Technology & Youth Employment: Harnessing the digital economy is central to empowering their youthful populations.
‎
‎Trade and Investment Potential
‎
‎Trade between Nigeria and Brazil has experienced sharp swings in recent years. From a high of about US $9 billion a decade ago, bilateral trade fell to just US $1.6 billion in 2023, reflecting underutilized opportunities and shifting global dynamics.
‎
‎In 2024, the figure remained under US $2 billion, with Brazil exporting roughly US $970 million worth of goods such as machinery and poultry to Nigeria, while Nigeria’s exports to Brazil stood at about US $920 million, driven by oil, cocoa, urea, and sesame. Brazil’s total imports from Nigeria in 2024 were valued at US $1.17 billion, largely mineral fuels and fertilizers.
‎
‎Despite this contraction, the trade balance between the two economies remains relatively even, a sign of mutual complementarity rather than one-sided dependence. Nigeria’s non-oil exports are increasingly finding space in the Brazilian market — in October 2024 alone, Nigeria’s non-oil exports reached US $0.62 billion, with Brazil as the single largest destination, accounting for over 20 per cent of the total.
‎
‎This demonstrates that beyond hydrocarbons, sectors like agriculture and agro-processing are already serving as bridges between the two economies, with clear potential for scaling up.
‎
‎Looking ahead, both countries have set ambitious targets to revive and expand their trade partnership. At several fora, leaders pledged to push trade back above US $2 billion, with a longer-term goal of reaching US $3.5 billion by 2030.
‎
‎Nigeria and Brazil have since signed onto an economic cooperation with the launch of the Green Imperative Partnership (GIP), a USD $1.1 billion initiative aimed at supplying 10,000 tractors and 50,000 pieces of equipment, to be assembled in Nigeria.
‎
‎This project is estimated to provide about 100,000 direct jobs and over 5 million indirect jobs. The program is anticipated to advance agricultural mechanisation and food security in Nigeria. It is imperative to note that the Green Imperative Agreement was signed during the visit of the Brazilian Foreign Minister, H.E. Mauro Viera, in Abuja this year. 
‎
‎In Oil & Gas, Brazilian giants such as Petrobras and Embraer are exploring investments in energy and aviation. The BASA Agreement for a direct flight route between our two countries is already on the table to be consummated , a move that would  dramatically improve connectivity, lower costs, and unlock new flows of trade, tourism, and investment.
‎
‎Cultural Linkages; Asides trade and economy, Nigeria and Brazil are linked by deep historical bonds dating back to the transatlantic slave trade, when millions of Africans — especially Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo — were taken to Brazil. Their languages, faiths, music, and cuisine left lasting imprints, visible today in Salvador da Bahia, Rio de Janeiro, and Afro-Brazilian traditions like Candomblé and Capoeira. Consular relations between the two countries are marked by the presence of an estimated 9,000 Nigerians residing in Brazil, the majority of whom live in Sao Paulo, the biggest city and commercial nerve center of the country.
‎
‎These roots now fuel modern exchanges in art, film, music, and academia, with Yoruba studies thriving in Brazil and Afro-Brazilian festivals attracting Nigerians. Such cultural diplomacy strengthens goodwill and opens pathways in the creative economy, heritage tourism, and education — proving the Nigeria–Brazil relationship is as much about shared identity as it is about shared strategy.

Beyond trade and diplomacy; The growing relevance of BRICS and the G20 signals a shift toward a multipolar world order. This is not about opposing any single power bloc; it is about ensuring space for voices like Nigeria’s and Brazil’s in reshaping trade, finance, technology, and food systems.
‎
‎As President Tinubu argued in Brasília, BRICS and South–South frameworks allow nations like Nigeria and Brazil to ‘look inward to decide what is important for our people and how we can leverage partnerships to accelerate development.’
‎
‎Nigeria and Brazil share several commonalities, including vast territories, large populations, tropical climates, and similar colonial histories. Both Countries hold considerable influence within their respective regions and are active members of key international organisations. They have been strong advocate for South-South Cooperation, with Brazil viewing Nigeria as a strategic gateway to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) market.
‎
‎This State Visit is the next leap forward in a carefully crafted strategy, one that transforms shared history and mutual challenges into shared prosperity.

‎This State Visit is  yet one of President Tinubu’s Power Forward Diplomacy (PFD), one that obliterates obstacles but propels Nigeria into a new era of bold economic and political diplomacy. A handshake across the Atlantic between two Global players in their own rights. Let the world take note : BRAZIL IS THEREFORE NOT A DETOUR BUT A DESTINATION.
‎
*‎Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Communication to President Bola Tinubu, is part of the President’s delegation to Brazil for the two-day state visit.
‎

Putin discusses deeper cooperation within BRICS bloc with South African, Brazilian presidents
Foreign

Putin discusses deeper cooperation within BRICS bloc with South African, Brazilian presidents

(TV BRICS/NAN) Russian President Vladimir Putin held telephone conversations with his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva during which they discussed international issues, according to the official website of the Russian leader, cited by TV BRICS.

The website indicated that the leaders of South Africa and Russia confirmed their mutual commitment to further developing a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and close cooperation in multilateral forums.

Putin and Ramaphosa last spoke by phone on Aug. 7 and at that time, they discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation between Russia and South Africa.

During the talks with Lula da Silva, interest in developing Russian-Brazilian dialogue and close cooperation within the BRICS bloc was confirmed. (TV BRICS/NAN)

(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)

Egypt, Zimbabwe to сooperate on public broadcasting, health, agriculture
Foreign

Egypt, Zimbabwe to сooperate on public broadcasting, health, agriculture

(TV BRICS/NAN) Egypt intends to expand cooperation with Zimbabwe, with a particular focus on development and training in the areas of public broadcasting and cooperation in a number of strategic fields.

This is according to a report by ZBC News, a partner of TV BRICS.

The report disclosed that the Egyptian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Salwa Mowafi, announced the intent during a meeting in Harare with Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Jenfan Muswere.

During the talks, the parties affirmed their desire to deepen bilateral ties, including the exchange of experience in healthcare and childcare, agriculture, water purification, tourism, and housing development.

The modernisation of the media sector and technical cooperation were also discussed.

“These are part of the areas that we want to work together on

“We also seek to deepen political, economic, and technical cooperation in infrastructure, housing, health, agriculture, tourism, and modernisation of our public broadcasting institutions,” said Muswere. (TV BRICS/NAN)

(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)

Sustainable dev’t: JICA, Kakehashi Africa award scholarships to 20 Nigerians
Foreign

Sustainable dev’t: JICA, Kakehashi Africa award scholarships to 20 Nigerians

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with the Kakehashi Africa-Nigeria Initiative (KANI), has awarded scholarships to 20 Nigerians for Master’s degrees and internships under the African Business Education (ABE) Initiative.

This marks the 12th batch of beneficiaries under the ABE Initiative, the SDGs Global Leader Programme Agri-Net, and PREPARE, all supported through Japan’s Official Development Assistance.

Speaking at the orientation and send-forth ceremony in Abuja, Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Suzuki Hideo, said the programme reflects Japan’s strong commitment to Africa, especially Nigeria, in line with the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD).

“It is not just a ceremony; it is a celebration of dreams, hard work and the beginning of a transformative journey,” he said.

“As you embark on your studies, remember you are not just students but ambassadors – the Kakehashi, or bridge – between Nigeria and Japan,” he added.

Mr Yuzurio Susumu, Chief Representative of JICA Nigeria, explained that the scholarships aim to nurture human resource development and strengthen socio-economic ties between both countries.

“This year, 20 participants will benefit, with most programmes lasting two years, while doctoral candidates will study for three years.

“The scheme is fully sponsored by the Japanese Government and JICA,” he said.

Senior JICA representative, Mr Yamamoto Tetsuya, stressed that the initiative focuses on key sectors such as agriculture, energy, health, and private sector development, which are vital to Nigeria’s growth.

One of the beneficiaries, Charles Anibogo, a principal electrical engineer at the Ministry of Power, said he would study energy transmission policy at the International University of Japan.

“With the energy challenges in Nigeria, I believe this programme will help me contribute meaningfully to energy policy on my return,” he said.

Since the programme’s launch in 2015, about 150 Nigerians have studied in Japan under the initiative, gaining both academic qualifications and internship experience with Japanese companies. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Tinubu departs Japan for Brazil state visit
Foreign

Tinubu departs Japan for Brazil state visit

By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎President Bola Tinubu departed Yokohama, Japan, on Thursday night for Brazil, where he will begin a state visit on Sunday, Aug. 24.

Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said in a statement that the President would make a stopover in Los Angeles before proceeding to Brasília, the Brazilian capital.

The trip to Brazil marks the second leg of Tinubu’s two-nation tour, which began with his departure from Abuja on Aug. 15.

On his way to Japan, the President had a brief stop in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, before arriving in Yokohama on the morning of Aug. 18.

While in Japan, Tinubu participated in the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), where he attended both the opening and plenary sessions on Aug. 20.

He also held a series of bilateral meetings with Japanese government officials, business leaders and development partners, aimed at strengthening ties between Nigeria and Japan.

The President further used the visit to highlight Nigeria’s economic reform agenda and to seek greater Japanese investment in infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy.

In addition to official engagements, Tinubu concluded his stay with an interactive session with Nigerians in the diaspora on Thursday night in Yokohama.

At the forum, he commended their contributions to national development and urged them to remain good ambassadors of Nigeria while exploring opportunities to invest back home.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu is expected to focus on trade, security, and cultural exchange during his Brazilian visit, reinforcing Nigeria’s bilateral relations with Latin America’s largest economy.

According to the Presidency, the visit will also feature discussions on cooperation in agriculture, energy transition, and regional security, areas of shared interest to both countries.

The President’s engagements in Brazil will include meetings with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and other senior government officials.

He is also expected to meet with the Nigerian community in Brazil to brief them on government policies and encourage stronger diaspora participation in national growth.

The presidency confirmed that Tinubu is due to return to Nigeria after completing his official engagements in Brazil. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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