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

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

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

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