NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG inaugurates committee for effective implementation of AfCFTA
General News

FG inaugurates committee for effective implementation of AfCFTA

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By Vivian Emoni

 

 

 

The Federal Government has inaugurated a committee to ensure strong implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to strengthen trade and economic growth.

 

 

 

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, while inaugurating the AfCFTA Central Coordination Committee, in Abuja on Tuesday, said that the committee would drive Nigeria’s strategic implementation of the AfCFTA.

 

 

 

 

 

Oduwole said that the committee was made up of both government and private stakeholders, adding that AfCFTA was one of the most transformative trade and economic initiatives in Africa’s history.

 

 

 

She said that AfCFTA represented more than a trade agreement, as it was a bold vision of integration, prosperity and inclusive growth across the Africa continent.

 

“With a market value of 1.4 billion people, and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 3.4 trillion dollars, AfCFTA offers Nigeria and, indeed, the whole of Africa, an unprecedented opportunity to reposition itself in a global economy.

 

“In advancing Nigeria’s implementation of the AfCFTA, we have been acknowledged regionally and globally for this impressive prioritisation.

 

“The work ahead of us is both urgent and essential. The world is watching how Africa rises, and Nigeria must lead by example,” the minister said.

 

She said that the AfCFTA agreement was signed on March 2018, and officially came into force on May 2019, giving momentum to Africa’s already dynamic investment and trade landscape.

 

Oduwole said that the agreement was a pivotal step toward establishing a single continental market for goods and services, with goals that included facilitating investment and trade.

 

According to her, it will promote sustainable and inclusive development, adapting gender policy and structural transformation, enhancing competitiveness, and stimulating industrial development across African economies.

 

“To achieve these goals, the agreement has been structured around several protocols. The first protocol, phase one, include trading goods, trading services, and business development procedures.

 

“While the phase two protocols involved investment, intellectual property rights, competition policy, digital trade, women and youth in trade,” she said.

 

Oduwole said that the President had directed her to coordinate diverse information of the AfCFTA agreement to strengthen the important mandate and ensure coordinated strategic implementation.

 

She urged all the committees and other relevant stakeholders to be committed to ensure a strong and effective implementation of AfCFTA.

 

“We will hold each other accountable as we create a roadmap for Nigeria’s implementation, and we actually speak to see what we are going to be able to deliver, even this year.

 

“We will track transparency to make sure that what we are going to deliver will bring a great achievement,” the minister said.

 

Mrs Nonye Ayeni, the Director-General of Nigeria Exports Promotion Council (NEPC), who spoke on behalf of the committee, said that the committee members would be committed and focused, to ensure positive result.

 

Also, the Special Adviser to the Minister, Mrs Patience Okala, said that AfCFTA was aimed at creating job opportunities and to boost economy in the continent. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Vivian Ihechu

Tinubu inaugurates 2nd Niger Bridge access road
General News

Tinubu inaugurates 2nd Niger Bridge access road

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By Monday Ajogun

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday inaugurated the construction of Phase 2B of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha.

This marks a key step in improving transport infrastructure and regional connectivity in the South East.

Tinubu was represented by Anambra governor, Charles Soludo, at the event.

He stated that the Second Niger Bridge, inaugurated in 2023, has significantly eased travel between the South East and other regions.

However, he explained that the bridge’s full benefits have been limited by incomplete access roads. The newly launched Phase 2B aims to address this issue by enhancing connectivity.

The project includes a 17.5km dual carriageway featuring seven bridges and modern infrastructure. These upgrades will include security cameras to enhance safety along the route.

The road will extend from the Umunya/Ogbunike axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.

It will pass through the Old Enugu Road Interchange, Ogidi, Nkpor-Umuoji Road Interchange, and the Asaba-Igbuzor Road Interchange, ending at Valley Bridge.

Earlier, Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, praised Governor Soludo for his outstanding leadership and transformative efforts across various sectors, particularly in road infrastructure.

Umahi highlighted that Anambra currently has 18 ongoing federal road projects. These include the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, which has been divided between MTN and another company for efficient execution.

He assured that payments would be linked to work progress, with 30 per cent of the contract sum already disbursed. He urged local communities to support the project and prevent disruptions.

Umahi also reaffirmed Tinubu’s commitment to the South East. He cited key appointments, including the Chief of Naval Staff and the Minister of Works, as evidence of the administration’s dedication.

The contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, represented by General Manager, Gius Cheng, promised to complete the project on schedule while maintaining the highest quality standards. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Expatriate Quota: FG to clampdown on irregular migrants beginning Aug. 1
General News

Expatriate Quota: FG to clampdown on irregular migrants beginning Aug. 1

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By Kelechi Ogunleye

The Nigerian Government says it will begin the clampdown on irregular migrants in the country from Aug. 1.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this during a meeting with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) on Tuesday in Abuja.

Tunji-Ojo said that the federal government was giving a three-month grace period to the irregular migrants starting from May 1.

“So, by Aug. 1, there will be strict clampdown on irregular immigrants in the country.

“We hope that people will take advantage of the three months grace period to regularise and subject themselves to established immigration protocols,” he said.

The minister also disclosed that the new Expatriate Administration System (EAS) would commence, effective May 1, after which enforcement would begin from Aug. 1.

He added that there would be an immigration amnesty programme for regularisation of due processes for three months.

According to him, the federal government will no longer tolerate a situation where some companies obstruct the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) from carrying out its legitimate duties.

“We have agreed that the era when some very few companies behave irresponsibly by distorting, blocking and as a matter of fact avoiding being subjected to immigration laws will no longer be tolerated.

“We all agree with the private sector that by virtue of the law, the immigration service has a right to do their job and must perform their mandate.

“We will be very hard on any company that avoids or prevents the NIS from carrying out its legal responsibility as we will not tolerate that going forward.”

Tunji-Ojo further said that there had also been a review of fees to encourage sustainability for certain citizenship and business activities of government.

“We have jointly agreed, negotiated and met in the middle. A detailed breakdown will be provided officially,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Lagos boosts urban development, infrastructure
General News

Lagos boosts urban development, infrastructure

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By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

The Lagos State Government is accelerating  urban development initiatives, with focus on infrastructure upgrade and economic growth.

The Special Adviser to the state governor on Electronic Geographical Information System (eGIS),  Mr Olajide Babatunde, gave the assurance on Monday.

Babatunde spoke during an inspection and assessment tour of some renovated and upgraded government facilities, including  urban development projects at Alausa, Ikeja.

He highlighted ongoing projects aimed at transforming Lagos into a 21st Century city.

These projects, he said, included the re-development of  Dosunmu Market, following a fire incident.

He also said that Gberewura Onirin Market was being transformed into a modern shopping mall that would feature anchor tenants such as ShopRite, and a cinema.

He said that Jankara Market re-development had reached approximately 60 per cent completion.

On infrastructure projects, Babatunde said that construction of a world-class international shopping centre with mixed-use facilities, including residential and hotel components, was in progress.

He said that the government was developing logistics hubs with completed facilities at Epe and ongoing constructions at Ikorodu.

Babatunde said that road construction projects were also underway.

On technological advancement, he said that the Lagos Geographic Information Service (GIS) building was almost completed, adding that there were plans to establish GIS units in various government agencies.

He disclosed that the government was automating land use charge billing and digitising land records.

 

He said that the office of the state surveyor-general was working with new auto photo and lidar images to improve the state’s mapping system.

On policy and regulation, he said that the state was developing a new urban policy and building code for sustainable urban growth.

According to him, the Lagos State House of Assembly is being asked to pass a law concerning the Lagos Geographic Information Service.

On agricultural initiatives, Babatunde said that the government was establishing agricultural hubs and settlements to enhance food security.

He noted that a four-kilometre designation for a special agricultural zone was recently  completed.

He added that the state government was re-developing its office spaces to increase workers’ efficiency.

Babatunde emphasised the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Lagos residents and fostering economic prosperity.

He highlighted the collaborative efforts of various government agencies to the success of the THEMES Plus Agenda of  the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration  in making the state a 21st Century city.

He said: “The government aims to create a fully-automated and technologically-advanced state, positioning Lagos as a centre of excellence.”

Earlier, staff members of key Lagos State Government agencies expressed  appreciation to Sanwo-Olu for his administration’s commitment to improving their work environment and prioritising their welfare.

The employees of agencies such as Lagos State Building Control Agency, Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, and the Office of the Surveyor-General of the state expressed  support for the governor’s initiatives.

They highlighted significant improvements made to their office spaces, saying that the renovations and upgrades had created a more conducive and efficient work environment.

They acknowledged the government’s determination to provide modern facilities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

 

 

NSF: Tinubu flags off Torch of Unity Movement
General News

NSF: Tinubu flags off Torch of Unity Movement

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By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting and providing an enabling environment for sports development in Nigeria.

 

The President spoke while flagging off the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival at the State House, Abuja.

 

The National Sports Festival, tagged: “The Gateway Games”, will take place in Ogun from May 16 to May 30.

 

Tinubu described sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for youth engagement, national cohesion and economic growth.

 

The President urged the public and private sectors to actively contribute to sports development in Nigeria, particularly in infrastructure expansion, talent identification, athlete nurturing and sponsorship of sporting events.

 

He stressed that enhanced collaboration remained essential for advancing the nation’s sporting potential and ensuring Nigeria remained a dominant force in global sports.

 

The President described the Torch of Unity as a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity.

 

The torch will herald the festival by travelling through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

 

“Since inception of the national sports festival in 1973, the games had been a veritable vehicle for interaction and integration of our young sportsmen and women.

 

“This festival provides a platform for all states and the FCT to showcase their sporting prowess under healthy competition, sportsmanship and friendly interaction to enhance and strengthen national unity.

 

“The games represent much more than just a competition of athletic skill; they embody the unity, strength, and resilience that define us as a nation.

 

“Every step we take together toward the festival is not merely an act of preparation for a sporting event but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to national building through sports,” the President said.

 

He recognised the contributions of Nigeria’s sporting legends and paid tribute to Falilat Ogunkoya, Olympic medalist and the National Torch Bearer.

 

He commended her dedication to promoting unity and sports excellence in Nigeria and Africa.

 

Gov. Dapo Abiodun said Ogun is fully prepared to host a world-class event, welcoming over 10,000 athletes in a festival designed to set new records.

 

He noted that elite Nigerian athletes such as Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan would grace the occasion, further reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a global sporting powerhouse.

 

“As Nelson Mandela once said, sports can change the world. They can inspire and unite people in a way that little else can.

 

“The unity torch, as it journeys across the federation, is not merely a symbol of the forthcoming games but a reflection of our shared aspirations and collective identity,” the governor said.

 

He added that as the proud host of the 22nd national sports festival, the state is not only ready to host over 10,000 athletes and officials but also to warmly welcome guests and supporters from every corner of the federation.

 

“For the first time in the history of the national sports festival, all our athletes will be housed within a single purpose-built facility, ensuring comfort, convenience and camaraderie.

 

“Our sporting infrastructure meets international standards, and we have left no stones unturned in delivering a festival that will set new records in organisation, participation and excellence.

 

“Our facilities are ready, our people are enthusiastic, and our athletes are prepared to showcase the best Nigerian sporting talent to the world,” he said.

 

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mr Shehu Dikko, described the festival as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics, adding that, for the first time, the commission had invited the best junior athletes in the country to participate under its sponsorship.

 

He said the young athletes would compete under the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) category, marking a historic inclusion in the festival.

 

Later, at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, Monday Onyeme, the deputy governor of Delta, representing Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori, handed over the Festival Torch of Unity to Dikko.

 

President Tinubu received the torch from Dikko, who in turn, passed it to Mr Bukola Olopade, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, who then entrusted it to Ogunkoya, for its journey across the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

 

 

Experts urge FG to decentralise electricity sector to unlock growth prospects
General News

Experts urge FG to decentralise electricity sector to unlock growth prospects

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By Simon Akoje

An Energy Expert, Prof. Yemi Oke, has urged the Federal Government to diversify and decentralise the Electricity Sector and its value chain to unlock its immense prospects.

Oke, a Lecturer of Energy Law, University of Lagos, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Tuesday.

He said that diversifying and decentralising are some panaceas in addressing the country’s electricity challenges.

“Currently, the country has moved from a centralised regime to having a decentralised system under this government.

“The state now has all the powers to generate, transit, distribute as well as regulate electricity in their respective states,” Oke said.

He stressed that Nigerians should be more innovative and harness the prospects of renewable energy in addressing their electricity needs, adding that this energy form was also cleaner.

The don also said that many companies were beginning to generate electricity through gas, but the impediment was the market.

“Companies cannot place in on the transition infrastructure which is weak, and the government is currently decentralising the process.

“So, if any company is generating independently, they will be reluctant to place it on the grid,” Oke said.

He stressed that the issues associated with the grid was regrettable because it was quite tasking to manage due to the possibilities of dilapidation over time.

“However, the world is moving towards off-grid because the on-grid is challenging and many are exploring mini-grid options in accessing electricity,” Oke said.

Similarly, Dr Olukayode Akinrolabu, Chairman, Customer Consultative Forum, Eko Distribution Company for Festac and Satellite Town, advocated for the reenactment of a new electricity policy or an act.

“The act or policy is expected to align and work with the 28 generating plants or it should be decentralised and allow each states to produce the required megawatts of electricity most suitable for their needs.

“Then when combined with the various component states, one will realise that we have attained 20,000 megawatts of electricity,” Akinrolobu said.

He stressed that over concentration of power on the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) would not result in the necessary growth in the sector.

“The state’s Independent Electricity Act should be implemented to the latter, which means each state should be allowed to have their own transmission company and be able to generate their own megawatts of electricity.

“Then independent distribution companies can deal with them, so when not satisfied with a particular electricity provider, individuals can have options to change,”Akinrolabu said.

He said that the country could generate and distribute about 50,000 megawatts of electricity in no distant time, if each state commenced generation and distribution of power.

NAN reports that recently, Nigeria generated 5,801 megawatts of electricity, the highest ever by the country.

The Head of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Sule Abdulaziz, disclosed this at the State House, Abuja.

Mr Abdulaziz said his state-owned TCN successfully transmitted all the generated electricity to the centres. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Tinubu inaugurates academy to nurture future leaders
General News

Tinubu inaugurates academy to nurture future leaders

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) to empower young Nigerians and nurture the next generation of leaders.

Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, said the academy would focus on skills development, employment, leadership and civil engagement.

This, according to him, will be achieved through world-class training in digital literacy, technical skills, entrepreneurship and the creative industries.

Tinubu said his administration would ensure that the youth were equipped to compete on the global stage.

He said initiatives like the Youth Investment Fund and the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters would provide financial support, mentorship and resources for young entrepreneurs.

“The establishment of the National Youth Development Bank will ensure access to the capital needed to turn ideas into thriving businesses,” said the President.

According to Tinubu, Nigeria is a peculiar nation with a median age of 17 years, one of the youngest in the world.

“This demographic reality presents both extraordinary opportunity and a pressing challenge. The Nigerian Youth Academy is, therefore, our bold response to this reality.

“Over the next two years, this academy will train and empower millions of young Nigerians. It will equip them with the skills, knowledge and opportunities needed to compete with the rest of the world.

“This is not just an investment in their future, it is an investment in the future of our nation,” Tinubu said.

Earlier, Mr Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, said the academy would complement other transformative government initiatives that emphasised Tinubu’s commitment to young people.

Edun said the Ministry of Finance was fully committed to supporting programmes like NIYA that created real values, promoted service export and reduced youth unemployment.

“We will continue to work with the Ministry of Youth Development and other partners to ensure that this platform succeeds and be integrated into the national economic strategy,” Edun said.

Also, Mr Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, said the academy would train, connect and empower the youth with skills needed for entrepreneurship.

“This initiative is for every Nigerian youth and is free. NIYA represents the determination of Mr President to help the youth to build their future, create opportunities for themselves and their families,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highpoint of the event was the presentation of N1 million start-up packs for six youths selected from each geopolitical zone. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Salif Atojoko

Association urges swift action on gender equality
General News

Association urges swift action on gender equality

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

 

The President of the United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN), Prof. Oluremi Olutimo, has urged urgent action to address gender disparity by empowering women economically.

 

 

 

Olutimo made this call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration held in Lagos on Friday.

 

 

 

The event, organised by UNAN in partnership with Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA), aimed to promote gender inclusiveness and empower women across all sectors.

 

 

 

Olutimo emphasised the need for inclusivity, noting that society must guarantee gender equality for all, especially women, to ensure balanced national development.

 

 

 

He said the event’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, aimed to highlight strategies, resources, and initiatives that support women’s advancement and encourage their widespread implementation.

 

 

 

According to him, significant barriers to gender equality still exist, but with the right support and decisive steps, women can achieve considerable progress.

 

 

 

Supporting gender equality advocates, he noted, remains one of the most effective ways to speed up progress toward a more equitable society.

 

 

 

“If the current trend continues and nothing is done to address gender disparity, the situation will worsen and create greater problems,” Olutimo warned.

 

 

 

He cited the World Economic Forum’s prediction that true gender parity will not be achieved until 2158 if present conditions persist.

 

 

 

“This highlights the urgent need to tackle structural biases and barriers faced by women both personally and professionally,” he stressed.

 

He added that the initiative seeks to ignite a movement, increase momentum, and achieve results with the necessary urgency and determination.

 

 

 

“We live in a historic moment that requires us to abandon gradual progress and embrace swift, impactful action,” Olutimo stated.

 

 

 

He described the event as a call to action, a platform for collaboration, and a space for generating innovative ideas to empower women.

 

 

 

“Our aim is to identify barriers, share best practices, and forge partnerships that will enable rapid and lasting transformation,” he added.

 

 

 

He emphasised the power of collective action, noting that combining diverse skills and expertise can help achieve shared goals efficiently.

 

 

 

Olutimo urged women to support UNAN’s efforts to accelerate gender equality and contribute actively to global progress.

 

 

 

“One of the best ways to advance gender equality is to identify effective strategies and implement them rapidly and consistently,” he noted.

 

 

 

He reiterated that supporting advocates is crucial in driving the gender equality movement forward at all levels of society.

 

 

 

“Many organisations, from grassroots groups to large institutions, work tirelessly to support and empower women and girls.

 

 

 

“We must unite in solidarity and support these organisations’ efforts to promote women’s rights and development,” Olutimo said.

 

 

 

Similarly, Mrs Abisola Akinsete, Chair of the IWD Organising Committee, stated that men must play an active role in advancing women’s rights.

 

 

 

“True gender equality requires collaboration, with male leaders using their influence to create opportunities for women,” Akinsete explained.

 

 

 

She commended Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for promoting women’s empowerment and inclusion through supportive policies in Lagos State.

 

 

 

“By ensuring female representation in his cabinet and agencies, Governor Sanwo-Olu sets a strong example for other leaders,” she added.

 

 

 

Dr Mrs Ijeoma Nweke, UNAN Vice President, described ‘Accelerating Actions’ as efforts to remove barriers and close the gender gap swiftly.

 

 

 

Nweke stressed that individuals, communities, private sectors, NGOs, and government must all take action to empower women.

 

 

 

“Women’s rights are human rights. Investing in women accelerates development – they are the architects of tomorrow,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

First Lady seeks collective commitment, investment to end TB
General News

First Lady seeks collective commitment, investment to end TB

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TB

By Celine-Damilola Oyewole

The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has called for collective commitment and investment in ending the deadly Tuberculosis (TB) disease.

Tinubu,  who is the National and Global Stop TB Champion, made the call in her message on Monday on the occasion of the 2025 TB Day with theme: “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”.

The first lady called on stakeholders to invest in free treatment for TB patients in order to save lives.

She said that TB treatment in Nigeria was free.

”I urge you to approach any hospital for free tests and treatments.

”The TB menace can be conquered in Nigeria and globally if necessary actions are taken towards combating it.

“Today, I join the global community in reaffirming our commitment to ending one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, TB.

“Tuberculosis is curable, and early treatment saves lives,” she said.

The first lady urged those who have persistent coughs which have lasted more than two weeks, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever, to visit the nearest health facility for free TB testing and treatment.

She enjoined all Nigerians to take TB seriously and go for proper treatment immediately they suspect any symptoms or are directed to do so.

“We are reminded that winning the fight against TB is possible when we unite our efforts, invest in proven solutions, and ensure the delivery of life-saving interventions to all who need them.

“As the National and Global Stop TB Champion, I take this responsibility with deep personal commitment. The fight against TB is not just a policy issue, it is personal,” she said.

NAN reports that the day, observed annually on March 24, amplifies the urgency of ending tuberculosis—the world’s deadliest infectious disease.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that the African region recorded the steepest decline globally in tuberculosis (TB) deaths since 2015, inspite of falling short of key milestones to significantly lower the burden of the disease and end its toll on health and lives.

Deaths from TB fell by 42 per cent between 2015 and 2023 while cases declined by 24 per cent over the same period, according to the WHO Global TB Report 2024. 

The reductions were mainly due to increased efforts by countries to reinforce case detection and provision of treatment, thus averting deaths.

About 1.9 million cases were detected in 2023 compared with 1.4 million in 2020.

Over the same period, the WHO said, treatment coverage rose from 55 per cent to 74 per cent across the region.

NAN also reports that the the report showed that Nigeria ranked first in Africa and sixth globally among the 30 high burden tuberculosis countries.

According to the report, 499,000 Nigerians developed TB in 2023, with more than 400,000 cases identified and treated in 2024, translating to 79 per cent treatment coverage. (NAN)

edited by Sadiya Hamza

Dangote Foundation donates rice to less privileged in Niger
General News

Dangote Foundation donates rice to less privileged in Niger

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By Rita Iliya

Aliko Dangote Foundation on Saturday donated and distributed 30,000 bags of 50kg rice to support vulnerable residents in Niger.

 

Ahmed Hashim, Group Managing Director, Dangote Group, Abuja, said the donation was part of the foundation’s efforts to alleviate hunger and poverty among vulnerable Nigerians in the state.

 

According to him, “We are committed to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce poverty and hunger in Nigeria.

 

“Our donation of rice to Niger state is a demonstration of our commitment to support what the state government is already doing,” he said.

 

Hashim said that the foundation’s intervention was to provide succor to the most vulnerable members of society, including widows, orphans, and the disabled.

 

Mr Yakubu Garba, Deputy Governor of Niger said at the distribution of the rice in Minna that the gesture would alleviate hunger and poverty in the state.

 

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Aliko Dangote Foundation for this gesture.

 

“Poverty and hunger are multi-dimensional problems that require collective efforts to tackle.

 

“The state government is working tirelessly to eliminate poverty and hunger in the state,” he said.

 

Garba reiterated the state’s ambitious plan to feed the nation, citing the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) code-named Niger Foods, which had transformed the state into a net exporter of assorted grains.

 

He announced that the state government had distributed 400 trucks of assorted grains to the 25 local government areas at a subsidised rate of 50 per cent since the commencement of the Ramadan.

 

He called on well-to-do individuals and large-scale retail marketers to emulate Aliko Dangote’s philanthropy by supporting the weak and downtrodden through charity or subsidised food sales.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joe Idika

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