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U.S. Catholic bishops, others hail Pope Leo XIV
General News

U.S. Catholic bishops, others hail Pope Leo XIV

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By Cecilia Ologunagba

U.S. bishops on Thursday hailed the election of former Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native and the first pope born in the U.S.A.

Cardinals elected the newly titled Leo to the supreme pontificate with white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel signaling the closing of the conclave with the selection of the new pope.

Pope Leo appeared before hundreds of thousands of faithful and spectators in St. Peter’s Square shortly thereafter, addressing the universal church and the world for the first time as pope.

“God loves us, all of us, evil will not prevail,” the pope said.

“We are all in the hands of God. Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward.”

Bishop of Brooklyn, Robert Brennan, in a podcast on the Diocese of Brooklyn website, welcomed the new pope “warmly, with great love.”

“God has given us a new shepherd,” he said. “Let’s pray for him with all our hearts.

“He is a relatively young Cardinal, he gave tributes to the Augustinians, I’m a son of St. Augustine,’’ he said.

The bishop said he liked his approach of identifying with his religious order, saying, the Pope quoted St. Augustine,” with you, am a Christian, for you am a Bishop.”

Brennan also spoke about his choice of Leo, adding that he would pick a lot of the works Pope Francis did and bring a new emphasis as a missionary bishop.

Leo is a reference to Leo XIII – the last pontiff to have the name – who was head of the Catholic Church from 1878 to 1903.

Leo XIII laid the foundation for modern Catholic social thought, most famously with his 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed workers’ rights and capitalism at the dawn of the industrial age.

Leo could also refer to Brother Leo, the 13th century friar, who was a great companion of St Francis of Assisi, it was claimed.

Also, Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Jeffrey Monforton wrote on X  “God bless our Holy Father Pope Leo XIV as he shares the joy of the Gospel with all the world.

“Together, let us fervently pray for Pope Leo XIV and his papal office.”

Kansas City, Kansas, Archbishop-elect Shawn McKnight wrote that the church “welcomes  our Holy Father” with “great thanksgiving.”

Similarly, the Catholic Diocese of Arundel & Brighton, England, welcomed the election of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Successor of St Peter and Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church.

Responding to the news, Bishop Richard Moth said: “We give thanks that under the guidance of the Holy Spirit the Cardinals have elected Pope Leo XIV.

“Pope Leo brings to the office of the Holy Father considerable experience as a bishop and pastor, including in Chulucanas.

“So, closely associated with our diocese, together with his more recent service as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.

“His prayer for peace in his first words from the balcony at St Peter’s will resonate with Catholics and all people of good will.

“This is a significant moment for the Catholic Church and for the world, and we offer our prayers for the Holy Father as he begins his Pontificate.”

Also, Amb. Ronald Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election as the leader of the Catholic Church.

“The WJC’s relationship with the Holy See spans decades and is grounded in a deep, ongoing commitment to interfaith dialogue.

“This partnership has centered on shared concerns such as the welfare of Jewish and Catholic communities, the fight against antisemitism and hatred, and the defence of religious freedom around the world.

“The WJC looks forward to continuing and deepening this essential dialogue under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV. At a time of global crisis, the importance of this relationship is only heightened,” he said in a statement.

Pope Leo, the first Pope from the United States of America, was born on Sept. 14, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois.

In 1977, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine in the province of Our Lady of Good Counsel, in Saint Louis.

On Aug. 29, 1981 he made his solemn vows. He studied at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago, receiving a diploma in theology.

At the age of 27 he was sent by the Order to Rome to study canon law at the Pontifical Saint Thomas Aquinas University (Angelicum).

He received priestly ordination on June 19, 1982. He received his licentiate in 1984, and was then sent to work in the mission of Chulucanas, in Piura, Peru (1985-1986); the Diocese of Chulucanas.

In 1987, he was awarded a doctorate with the thesis: “The role of the local prior in the Order of Saint Augustine”.

In the same year he was elected director of vocations and director of the missions of the Augustinian province of “Mother of Good Counsel” of Olympia Fields, Illinois.

On Nov. 3 2014, Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, elevating him to the dignity of bishop and assigning him the titular diocese of Sufar.

He was ordained a bishop on  Dec. 12, at the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in the cathedral of his diocese.

He was created and proclaimed Cardinal by Pope Francis in the Consistory of 30 September 2023, of the Deaconry of Santa Monica. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Bi-Courtney donates to school for Blind
General News

Bi-Courtney donates to school for Blind

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By Itohan Abara-Laserian

 

As part of its corporate social responsibility, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd. on Thursday visited the Bethesda Home/School for the Blind in Lagos, praising the students’ skill and talent.

 

 

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd operates the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2) in Lagos.

 

 

 

Mr Kola Bamigboye, Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Premises, said the visit marked part of the firm’s 18th anniversary celebrations.

 

 

 

He said Bethesda had visited MMA2 in 2024, leaving a lasting impression on the staff and management of the terminal.

 

 

 

Bamigboye praised the company’s Founder and Chairman, Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN, for recognising talent and sending the team with gifts.

 

 

 

Presenting a cheque for N2 million, he said: “We were touched by the brilliance, confidence and talent shown during your visit to our terminal.

 

 

 

“The children’s performance and conduct deeply impressed us, planting the seed to support your vital work in any way we can.

 

 

 

“Bethesda Home for the Blind offers hope and education to visually impaired children. Your work is making an immeasurable impact,” he added.

 

 

 

Bamigboye commended the staff for nurturing the children’s potential and giving them a future of dignity and opportunity.

 

 

 

“This cheque, though modest, reflects our heartfelt support and desire to walk alongside you in your important mission,” he said.

 

 

 

He described the gesture as a symbol of respect and commitment to a more inclusive, compassionate society.

 

 

 

Mr Remi Jibodu, Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautical and Cargo, also praised the school’s innovation.

 

 

 

Jibodu said: “The children’s use of their skills, despite visual impairment, inspired us to encourage their excellence and spirit.

 

 

 

“We bring greetings from our chairman, who was moved by their visit to MMA2 and urged us to support them.”

 

 

 

Dr Chioma Ohakwe, Founder of the school, urged parents of physically challenged children to enrol them, not hide them.

 

 

 

She stressed that disability is not the end, citing the academic success of some students in tertiary institutions.

 

 

 

Ohakwe acknowledged ongoing challenges but said the school remains determined to stay relevant and impactful.

 

 

 

She revealed the school has over 200 children across nursery, primary, and secondary levels.

 

 

 

Displaying students’ talents in art, music, and dance, Ohakwe thanked Babalakin for his generous support.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Bi-Courtney marked its 18th anniversary on May 7 with the unveiling of a 3D Exterior Signage.

 

 

 

Mrs Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, Head of Corporate Communications, said the new signage enhances the terminal’s identity and user orientation.

 

 

 

“MMA2 remains a symbol of innovation and private sector excellence in Nigeria’s aviation sector,” she said.

 

 

 

NAN also reports that the company pledged to train staff and studentship on security, to boost safety at the school premises.

 

 

 

Other anniversary activities included music, gifts, and a funfair at the terminal to entertain passengers and mark the milestone. (NAN)

 

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu / Kamal Tayo Oropo

Choosing the first American Pope
Foreign , General News

Choosing the first American Pope

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By Magdalene Ukuedojor

Cardinal Robert Prevost has become the first American pope.

The Cardinals, gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, have elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pope, who took the name Pope Leo XIV.

The chimney atop the Sistine Chapel released a plume of white smoke on Thursday, signalling that the 133 cardinals working inside had reached a two-thirds majority to elect a new pope for the Catholic Church.

A senior cardinal deacon, stood on the balcony on the facade of St. Peter’s Basilica, overlooking St. Peter’s Square and declared in Latin: “Nuntio vobis gaudium magnum: habemus papam” – “I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope”.

American Cardinal Robert Prevost was announced as the choice to replace Pope Francis.

Bells at St. Peter’s Basilica rang and crowds cheered as the white smoke billowed from the chimney.

The new leader of the Catholic Church was chosen amid the third round of conclave voting.

Cardinal Robert Prevost selected the name Leo XIV as his name for pope, a senior cardinal deacon announced.

John, the most popular name selected among cardinals, has been used 23 times. Gregory has been used 16 times, and Benedict has been chosen 16 times.

The only name that is not allowed to be used is Peter, which is an unwritten rule in the Catholic Church, paying respect to the first pope, Saint Peter.

American Cardinal Robert Prevost stands on the balcony on the facade of St. Peter’s Basilica as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, is an American who has spent much of his career as a missionary in Peru.

Made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023, he has given few media interviews and rarely speaks in public.

Originally from Chicago, he has attracted interest from his peers because of his quiet style and support for Francis’ 12-year papacy, especially his commitment to social justice issues.

Prevost served as a bishop in Chiclayo, in northwestern Peru, from 2015 to 2023.

Francis brought him to Rome that year to head the Vatican office in charge of choosing which priests should serve as Catholic bishops across the globe, meaning he has had a hand in selecting many of the world’s bishops.

Prevost said during a 2023 Vatican press conference: “Our work is to enlarge the tent and to let everyone know they are welcome inside the Church.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Sanwo-Olu reaffirms support for SMEs, unveils loan initiative
General News

Sanwo-Olu reaffirms support for SMEs, unveils loan initiative

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By Rukayat Moisemhe and Aderonke Ojediran

 

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has unveiled the Lagos State Access to Finance for SMEs through Cooperatives (LASMECO) to provide access to finance for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) and registered cooperative societies in the state.

 

Sanwo-Olu unveiled the initiative at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, on Wednesday in partnership with Bank of Industry (BoI) and Sterling Bank Ltd

 

He said the tripartite initiative was designed to break the funding barrier to enable SMEs to access up to N10 million at a single-digit interest of nine per cent per annum without collateral.

 

LASMECO is a first-of-its-kind public-private financing platform that aims to deliver low-interest, risk-mitigated loans to SMEs across strategic sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, creative industries, manufacturing, and circular economy clusters.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative is a game changer that will accelerate access to finance for SME business owners in the state by providing a loan of up to N10 million at nine per cent interest rate for two to three years.

 

The governor advised the beneficiaries to use the money and grow for their businesses judiciously.

 

“I stand here today filled with pride and hope. Pride in the indomitable spirit of Lagosians, and hope for the future we are building together.

 

“This occasion, the launch of the joint initiative between the Lagos State Government, Bank of Industry, and Sterling Bank MSME Fund, is not just a formal unveiling of a financing programme.

 

“It is the unveiling of dreams, the lighting of thousands of small candles that together will illuminate the path to a more prosperous and inclusive Lagos.

 

“Let me begin with a story that captures why this moment matters. A few years ago, I met a young woman named Bisola in Alimosho. Bisola ran a small tailoring business out of a single shop.

 

“She had creativity, she had customers, and she had ambition, what she didn’t have was affordable capital to expand. Traditional loans were out of reach without collateral, so for years her dream of opening a small factory remained just that: a dream.

 

“In 2020, through a Lagos State support scheme for small businesses, Bisola accessed a low-interest loan. With that little boost, she bought two additional sewing machines and hired three apprentices from her community,” the governor said.

 

The governor further said that there were other Bisola’s that would benefit from the scheme.

 

Sanwo-Olu commended the contribution of the informal sector to economic growth and development.

 

“Bisola’s story is not only inspiring, but it is unique. It is one of thousands of success stories our Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have written across this great state.

 

“From the bustling markets of Balogun and Idumota, to the tech hubs of Yaba, to the bustling garages in Ikeja and the creative studios in Surulere, our MSMEs are the unsung heroes of Lagos’s economy.

 

“They are the backbone and the heartbeat of our drive toward prosperity. When we talk about making Lagos a 21st century economic powerhouse, it is their energy and innovation that power the engine.

 

“Think about it, MSMEs account for almost 96 per cent of businesses in our nation and nearly half of our GDP. Here in Lagos, we are proud to host the highest concentration of these enterprises in Nigeria.

 

“That means millions of our citizens wake up every day as owners of small shops and stalls, founders of startups, operators of restaurants and factories, providers of services and artisans of trade.

 

“Together, these hard-working men and women employ the vast majority of our workforce and provide livelihoods for countless families. They turn the cogs of commerce in every neighborhood, from Epe to Eko, Badagry to Ikeja,” he said.

 

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folasade Ambrose-Madebem, described the initiative as a revolutionary financing scheme for MSMEs to provide a single digit non-collateralised loan.

 

Ambrose said the loan to be given to businesses under cooperatives would unlock the next generation of entrepreneurs in the state.

 

“So, as we begin this journey today, let us remember that this is not just about launching, it’s about unlocking the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“This is about creating a type of globally grown, globally competitive enterprise that will find its future opportunities.

 

“It’s about ensuring that whether you’re a young woman in Badagry, a healthcare provider LASMECO will work for you,” she said.

 

The Managing Director of BoI, Dr Olasupo Olusi, said the bank partnered Lagos State on the initiative to ensure access to finance for MSMEs to tackle poverty and guarantee economic growth in communities.

 

NAN reports that the highpoint of the event was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the initiative between the Lagos State Government, Bank of Industry and Sterling Bank. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Soludo empowers “1 Million Anambra Digital Tribe” on Tech skills
General News

Soludo empowers “1 Million Anambra Digital Tribe” on Tech skills

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By Funmilayo Adeyemi
Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has unveiled the “1 Million Anambra Digital Tribe” (1MADT), an initiative designed to empower no fewer than one million “Ndi Anambra” – Anambra people, with world-class digital skills.

This is an initiative through the Solution Innovation District (SID), toward transforming Anambra into Africa’s Silicon Valley and a Smart Mega City.

This is contained in a statement made on  Wednesday by Ms Chinwe Okoli, Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation.

According to Okoli, the ground-breaking programme aims to democratise access to digital education by providing free, high-quality digital skills training to over one million Ndi Anambra, both residents and indigenes.

” At the heart of the initiative is the SID Academy – a robust Learning Management System (LMS) accessible via www.sidacademy.ng, where participants can learn anytime, anywhere, at their own pace.

“Designed to be inclusive and transformative, 1MADT offers 32 beginner to advanced courses in high-demand digital fields such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, SEO optimisation, web design, data analysis, graphic design, digital marketing, and more.

“It is with flexible training durations ranging from four to 12 weeks.

“No prior experience or qualifications are required, making it accessible to everyone- from students and job seekers to professionals and entrepreneurs,” she said.

She added that the benefits of this initiative extend far beyond individual learners, but equipping Anambra’s workforce with future-ready skills.

Okoli also said that the 1MADT had been designed to drive job creation, inspire innovation, fuel entrepreneurship, enhance SME productivity, and position the state as a magnet for global technology investments.

“Mr Governor promised to upskill 10,000 persons annually but has already surpassed that number.

“With a new target of one million, the goal is to eradicate digital illiteracy and unlock the potential of our people to compete favourably with technology.

“Mr Governor is developing 13.7 hectares as our Silicon Valley and investing in the skill sets required to compete globally. This programme is for all Ndi Anambra—and it is totally free to beneficiaries.

“There are even additional incentives such as laptops and smartphones to celebrate excellence,” she said.

She added that the initiative supported the Governor’s broader vision of economic transformation through digital empowerment and innovation-driven development.

“In line with this vision, SID is also deploying SID Mini Hubs/partner centres which are tech-enabled learning centres strategically located in schools and communities across the state.

“These hubs are outfitted with computers, internet access, projectors, and teleconferencing tools to ensure equitable access to digital resources, especially in underserved areas. (NAN)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Don urges state govts, others to support Tinubu’s tax reform
General News

Don urges state govts, others to support Tinubu’s tax reform

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By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

A university lecturer, Prof. Godwin Oyedokun, has called on state governments in the country and other stakeholders to support the tax reform of President Bola Tinubu to bring prosperity to Nigeria.

Oyedokun made the call at the 2025 Award of Excellence organised by the Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT), FCT Chapter on Wednesday in Abuja.

Oyedokun, who lectures at the Department of Accounting and Financial Development, Lead City University, Ibadan, said the tax reform initiated by the President was one of the best things that had happened in Nigeria.

“I am not a fan of any government, but when government gets its right, I will say it; and if they do not, I will say it.

“The content of the bill is better than what we have currently. So, I want everybody to support the reform.

“State governments, lower income earner and others will benefit massively from the Tinubu’s tax reform, because it will bring them out of unnecessary taxes, and thus, we no longer need to tax poverty.

“Prosperity will come and government will also gain from it. And you could see incentive for companies, start-up companies, informal sector and entrepreneurs will now be able to do well.

“When it comes to harmonisation of taxes in Nigeria, this bill will ensure that we have it. There will no longer be anything like touting in tax arena.

“Apart from that, all the different pockets of tax law that we have around will now be codified and made as just one textbook where each chapter contains each of the tax laws,” Oyedokun said.

Oyedokun, who was one of the awardees, explained that if the tax reform bill scaled through, it would also make state governments deliver more dividends of democracy to their people.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of SWIT, Dr Bosede Ikanoba said the essence of the 2025 Award of Excellence was to recognise the deserving individuals and their contributions to professionalism and SWIT.

“When you give awards and recognition to deserving individuals, you are recognising their contributions for professionalism, their skills, talents, excellence and contributions in making the society greater.

“They’ve given support financially to the society. They’ve contributed to building capacity of our members. And so, they are quite deserving of this award today.

“It’s a good thing because, it will further motivate others, you know, to see that they also do their own bit and contribute to the society,” Ikanoba said.

Also, the Coordinator of SWIT, Abuja Chapter, Mrs Biola Saliu, said the event was to mark the end of her tenure that started about two years ago.

“There is nothing that you can do all alone. There are people that have been there for me, who supported me and who made me to achieve the little that I was able to achieve.

“So, therefore, I decided to recognise them just as it’s being said that when you say thank you to somebody, you have pushed the person to do more for you. So that’s the purpose of organising this event.

“I will advise the person that will take over from me to build on the legacy that has been laid and to make sure that it’s improved upon because there is always room for improvement.

“The purpose of learning is for you to improve on what your teacher has taught you. So, she is supposed to be able to perform better than what I have done,” Saliu said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that about 20 persons bagged the SWIT awards for excellence. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joe Idika

FG ban on foreign goods, testament to re-engineering economy – CSO
General News

FG ban on foreign goods, testament to re-engineering economy – CSO

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By Ikenna Osuoha
Initiative for Leadership Development and Change (ILDC), a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), says the Federal Government’s ban on foreign goods is a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to re-engineering Nigeria’s economy.

Chief Ugochukwu Nnam, President ILDC, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

NAN reports that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently banned the procurement of foreign goods or services by Federal Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)

The initiative tagged “Nigeria First Policy,” is aimed at strengthening the country’s economy by prioritising locally manufactured goods and services.

Nnam noted that the policy was key to rescuing Nigeria’s shrinking economy from collapsing.

He also said that the policy would stimulate the micro and macro industries in the country and improve the economy.

He expressed optimism that the policy would not only boost the national economy but promote local content.

He lauded the policy and described President Tinubu as a leader with overwhelming love for Nigeria and her progress.

“This is a win-win policy for our local industrialists like Dangote, Innoson and even the upcoming ones.

“This policy will guarantee patronage for their products at least from MDAs and as such increase the country’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

“I salute Tinubu’s transformational courage, because he has shown capacity in leadership unlike his predecessors.

“Tinubu is the only President that practically wants Nigeria to produce what she uses and use what she produces.

“Now that government agencies are directed to only patronise our local manufacturers, there will be job creation and financial security,” he said.

The ILDC President reaffirmed the commitment of his CSO to supporting people- oriented policies of President Tinubu for sustainable development. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Deborah Coker

Niger agency begins repair of township roads
General News

Niger agency begins repair of township roads

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By Rita Iliya

The Niger state Road Maintenance Agency (NIGROMA) has commenced the repairs of bad portions of Minna township roads to ease movement.

 

Alhaji Farouk Audi, Managing Director of the agency, disclosed this during the flag-off of the third phase of the ongoing repairs in Minna.

 

According to Audi, the third phase will start with the 4.4-kilometre road leading to Government House, Minna.

 

“We are here today to effect repairs on this critical road, which is part of our mandate to maintain state roads across all local government areas.

 

“This is a continuation of our repairs, and we have started with this particular road, with the hope of completing it within the next three days before moving to others,” he said.

 

Audi revealed that NIGROMA would repair seven roads in Minna metropolis, including the road from Democracy Garden to Zarumai, High Court Roundabout to Mobil, Bomas Roundabout to Obasanjo complex, and others.

 

According to him, the goal of the agency is to achieve smooth roads, in line with our agency’s mandate.

 

He noted that the state had over 2,000 kilometres of roads and more were still being built.

 

“We intend to maintain these roads for the people to enjoy them because the agency’s commitment is to improve road infrastructure in the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joe Idika

Waqf: Al-Habibiyyah unveils Islamic blueprint for sustainable development
General News , Religious

Waqf: Al-Habibiyyah unveils Islamic blueprint for sustainable development

121 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS) has unveiled a bold and inclusive Islamic initiative aimed at tackling poverty and accelerating community growth/national development.

The National Chief Imam of AIS, Sheik Fuad Adeyemi, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja at a workshop for management staff of the organisation ahead of the inauguration of the Al-Habibiyyah Waqf Foundation and other developmental projects.

According to Adeyemi, Waqf is a strategic Islamic charitable endowment involving the dedication of assets or properties whose benefits are channeled toward community development.

He said that income generated from the Waqf assets are used for humanity and public good such as building schools, Mosques, healthcare or supporting less privileged in the society.

The Imam highlighted how businesses can be endowed through Waqf to ensure continuity, serve humanitarian causes and tackle poverty in the country.

He said “if you notice in Nigeria, almost all the businesses, the moment the owner dies, that is the end of the business.

“But with Waqf, you can endow the business in an Islamic way, and such business will be taken over
and be used for the good of the people.

“These are the things we want to promote for the benefit of humanity.”

Adeyemi said that aside the Waqf  Foundation, other developmental initiatives to be inaugurated include the “Faith and Philanthropy Initiative”, in collaboration with McArthur Foundation.

Others are the Al-Habibiyyah Rural Initiative, Estate Planning and Allied Services (EPAS), Diaspora Support Services, Volunteer Mobilisation and African Mosque Forum.

He explained that AIS would collaborate with business associations, strategic stakeholders such as the Corporate Affairs Commission and Islamic banks to drive the various initiatives.

He expressed confidence that the initiatives would provide sustainable, faith-based solutions to the challenges of poverty and underdevelopment across the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was attended by development experts, Islamic scholars, business management experts and media consultants. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Integration: ECOWAS decries W/Africa’s high airfares
General News

Integration: ECOWAS decries W/Africa’s high airfares

96 total views today

By Mark Longyen

Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament Mémounatou Ibrahima and other stakeholders have decried the high fares of traveling by air within West Africa, saying such was inimical to subregional economic growth.

They made this known at the opening session of a Delocalised Meeting of  ECOWAS Parliament’s Joint Committee on Infrastructure, Energy and Mines, Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources, on Tuesday in Lomé.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event has as its theme: “Air Transport as a Means of Integration for West African Peoples: A Strategy for Reducing Airline Ticket Costs.”

The speaker noted that there would not be free movement of people without effective and affordable transportation, and air transport was a vital tool for regional economic development and integration.

According to her, the prohibitive airfares are obstacles to the successful implementation of the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocols to achieve its ECOWAS of the People vision.

“The theme reflects a major issue facing our citizens: the prohibitive costs of air travel between our countries, which hinder the free movement of people and compromise our ambitions for regional integration,” she said.

The speaker further said that air transport promoted trade, stimulated tourism, strengthened cultural and social ties, and contributed to the growth of member states’ economies.

She attributed the soaring air fares to multiple taxes and charges imposed across airports in the region.

“The airports contribute financially to state budgets in several ways, including landing fees, air ticket taxes, security taxes, non-aviation taxes, and revenues from commercial activities at the airport.

“However, it is clear that all these fees make air ticket costs prohibitive within the ECOWAS region, thus hampering a major driver of development, which is tourism.

“Others are national airlines operating in isolation rather than in synergy; lack of modern infrastructure adapted to the needs of air transport; and weak implementation of agreements liberalising African airspace, notably the Yamoussoukro Declaration,” Ibrahima said.

She warned that the ECOWAS Vision 2050 would remain elusive without an efficient and affordable air transport system.

“If we are to achieve the objectives of the third pillar of ECOWAS Vision 2050, ‘Economic Integration and Interconnectivity,’ it is up to us, as representatives of the peoples of ECOWAS, to explore viable and sustainable solutions.

“I am convinced that the discussions that will take place during this meeting, to which we have invited African air transport experts and leaders, will be fruitful and will lead to concrete proposals to address this major challenge,” she added.

The parliamentarian urged her colleagues to develop strong recommendations that would guide member states and relevant institutions in establishing a policy framework for more accessible regional air transport.

In his remarks, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation, Sédiko Douka, said that air transport fares within the West African subregion was the highest globally.

He said the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government was concerned about the situation and had mandated the commission to coordinate and harmonise member states’ air transport policies, programmes, and projects.

“The task now lies in working towards the implementation of these community texts by ECOWAS member states, whose effective implementation start date has been set for January 1, 2026 – a 15-month period to allow them to prepare, particularly from a budgetary perspective.

“The subregion is counting on you the members of parliament to implement the community texts that the states themselves initiated and participated in the development, review, and adoption process,” Douka said.

Vice President of the Togolese National Assembly, Dzereke Yao, said West Africa’s air transport challenge must be urgently addressed to foster stronger economic and human connections among ECOWAS citizens.

He said prohibitive airfares were undermining the region’s integration aspirations, adding that the outcome of the five-day meeting should go beyond discussions.

“This paradoxical situation merits our attention because our community boasts considerable potential, whether in population size, economic growth, or youthful dynamism,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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