NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
How Nigeria-UK trade stood by June — British Deputy High Commissioner
General News

How Nigeria-UK trade stood by June — British Deputy High Commissioner

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Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos, on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023.
Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos, on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023

 

By Oladele Eniola

Nigeria’s exports into the UK from June 2022 to June 2023 were worth 3.3 billion pounds, according to the British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter.

Baxter gave the figure while speaking on the level of trade between both countries, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

He said that the figure was 1.4 billion pounds higher than what was achieved in the corresponding year before.

“The overall trade figures, that include imports and exports is 7.6 billion pounds and of that, 4.3 billion are made up of UK products that are imported into Nigeria. That figure has gone up a one billion pounds, if you compare with the figure of the year before.

“The rest of the 3.3 billion are Nigeria’s exports into the UK, and this has gone up by 1.4 billion.  So, the increase in Nigeria export into the UK has been much more fast and this is great news.

“It shows that Nigeria is producing goods and services that people in the UK want to buy and they are being bought and purchased from Nigeria,” he said.

He noted that introduction of Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) has further strengthened trade relations between both countries

“The UK is committed to creating the best conditions possible for trade to continue to strengthen and in June this year, we started a new programme called DCTS.

“It is a global scheme covering all developing countries in the region of 65 countries and Nigeria, in particular, benefits from that.

“What it does is that it allows more and more goods into the UK by reduced tariffs or no tariffs at all and for Nigeria, 99 per cent of what Nigeria’s export to the UK in goods and service is tariffs-free.

“This means that it is cheaper for people in the UK to buy those Nigerian goods and therefore are going to be more popular and it is a great thing for Nigeria to benefit from,” he said.

Baxter revealed that both countries were exploiting ways to address some barriers and hinderances of trading between both countries.

He said that in April 2024, UK would host an African Investment Summit which would serve as a platform for Nigerian Companies to meet British investors.

“In April next year, the UK is hosting an African investment summit and Nigeria would be a big player as it is an opportunity for Nigerian companies to pitch to British companies for investments, contracts, imports and exports

“As part of that, there would be a special side event on Nigeria creatives as I think in the past, maybe people haven’t focused so much on the creative industry as part of the economy.

“Nigeria is such a classic place where the creatives are so important and they have produced a lot of money and wealth. Indeed, I think it is an increasing area for Nigeria’s economy and it is brilliant that the African Investment Summit would have this side event,” he said. (NAN)

ENI/SOA

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Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

 

Subsidy removal: Sanwo-Olu flags off food palliatives, targets 500,000 vulnerable households
Agriculture

Subsidy removal: Sanwo-Olu flags off food palliatives, targets 500,000 vulnerable households

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By Olayinka Olawale
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday flagged off the distribution of food items for 500,000 vulnerable households in the state to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal.

Speaking during the exercise at the Lagos State House, Alausa, Ikeja, the governor said that the strategic goal of the programme was to reach vulnerable households in the state with staple food items, using two methodologies.

He said that under the category one, groups would receive bulk food items including 50kg rice, 50kg  Garri and 100kg of  beans.

He said that category two, individual vulnerable households would receive food boxes which consist of 10kg rice, 5kg garri and 5kg Beans.

“I stand before you all today, deeply aware of the challenges that many Lagosians have been facing with regards to the sharp increases in transportation cost and the prices of essential food items across the state as a direct effect of the policy on the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.

“As a responsive government, we announced a number of measures aimed at ameliorating the effect of the policy on our people, most especially the vulnerable.

“These palliative measures which are already being implemented includes a 50 per cent reduction in transportation cost in the government-owned bus system and free health services for pregnant women in government hospitals among others.

“One of the measures which we announced and being formally flagged off today is the distribution of food items for vulnerable households through the Lagos Food Bank Programme.

“The strategic goal of this programme is to reach 500,000 vulnerable households in the state with staple food items using two methodologies – bulk and individual.

“Bulk food items include (50kg Rice, 50kg Garri and 100kg Beans) for groups, and food boxes (10kg Rice, 5kg Garri, and 5kg Beans) for individual vulnerable households,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu said that to ensure transparency in the implementation of this intervention, a monitoring committee would be constituted.

 

According to him, members of the committee would be drawn from religious groups, trade unions, people with disabilities, civil society/non-governmental organisations, youth groups, community development councils and representatives of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

 

He said that distribution would be done in phases  among the various beneficiary groups for ease of the process.

The governor noted that in line with this plan, each group would be duly informed of the date for collection.

“Overall, this initiative will directly impact 500,000 benefitting households, over 2,500 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises involved in bag manufacturing, food aggregation, packaging, and logistics, while over 25,000 employees of the MSMEs will be indirectly impacted.

 

“I will like to use this opportunity to solicit for the support of well-meaning and public spirited individuals and organisations for this programme so that more of our people in need of this intervention can be reached.

“Be rest assured that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure that all items received get to the intended beneficiaries,” he said.

The governor said that his administration acknowledges  the economic challenges experienced  at this time.

According to him, the policies being implemented by the federal government are difficult but necessary measures that must be taken to reposition our economy on the path of sustainable development and prosperity for all citizens.

“I am, therefore, appealing for the continued understanding of all Lagosians with the assurance that we will do everything within our capacity to implement measures that will cushion this temporary pain.

“We will continue to initiate programmes and projects that will uplift our people and provide quality living conditions to all.

Some of the beneficiaries commended the governor for the support to reduce the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.

Mrs Josephine Babalola, Vice Chairperson, People Living with Disabilities, Lagos State Chapter, thanked the governor for his continuous support to the physically challenged in the state.

Alhaji Anifat-Amosa Babaniji, an Islamic cleric, lauded the government,  urging it to do more in alleviating  the economy hardship in the state.

“I am very happy about it because it will go a long way for the less privileged  people.

“The impact of fuel subsidy is being felt by everyone in general. So, this is a welcome development.

“When this palliatives goe round, people will be relieved a little bit from  the policy,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that representatives of 18 groups received their food palliatives.

They include Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), religious groups  and physically challenged group. (NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Collapsed building: Oyebanji orders strict supervision, certification of public buildings
General News

Collapsed building: Oyebanji orders strict supervision, certification of public buildings

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By Funmilayo Okunade
Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti has ordered strict supervision and certification of building construction by relevant government agencies to forestall future building collapse in the state.

Oyebanji, represented by Dep. Gov. Monisade Afuye, gave the order on Sunday when he visited the scene of a building collapse in Ijero-Ekiti.

He also visited the victims of the incident, who were receiving medical treatment at the Ijero General Hospital, Ijero-Ekiti, where he sympathised with them.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that six persons sustained varying degrees of injuries, when an Event Centre building collapsed in Ijero-Ekiti, Ijero Local Government Area, on September 2.

The governor directed all the agencies of government to ensure that all the public buildings of that nature were properly supervised and certified at every stage to avoid unwarranted fatalities.

He expressed deep concern over the high degrees of injuries sustained by the victims.

Oyebanji said that the incident could have been averted, “if proper building scrutinies and compliance with specifications were carried out by government agencies”.

He, therefore, warned that situations like that should not be allowed to recur in the state.

He gave assurance that his government would initiate measures to make Emergency Management Equipment available in all the local government areas to respond to any emergency situation.

“Let me sympathise with the victims of this devastating incident.

“Nobody prays for bad thing to happen but we need to be proactive in preventing occurrences of this nature, rather than being reactive.

“I know that if the building had been thoroughly supervised and certified fit at every stage of the erection, this incident could have been averted.

“It is just normal and procedural that all public buildings be monitored to ensure they are built to specifications and with standard materials.

“This is because the common feature associated with building collapse now is the use of substandard materials by the building contractors.

“We thank God that no life was lost.

“But as a responsible government, we won’t wait until people died before taking actions that can safeguard their lives.

“That is why it is most expedient that all government agencies must be responsive to their duties at all times,” Oyebanji said.

The Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency, Mr Olajide Borode, also on the entourage, said the men of Fire Services were immediately deployed in the spot for rescue operation as soon as he received a distress call.

“We want to appreciate our people for commencing the rescue operation through evacuation of the occupants out of the building before the Fire Service men came to join.

“The Ekiti State  Bureau of Special Project will be here to do Integrity Test on the building to ascertain whether it can be salvaged or demolished outright,” he said.

Speaking, the Lawmaker representing Ijero Constituency in the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Mr Ademola Ojo, commended the governor for prioritising the safety of the citizens

Narrating how the incident happened, Ojo said: “A reception for a burial ceremony was ongoing when there was a deep crack on the wall.

“And suddenly, the roofing and Plaster of Paris caved in and fell on those who were seated inside the auditorium.

“This caused a stampede. Many were wounded in the process, while some others sustained serious bodily injuries.

“I was here with the council chairman and fire service men to rescue the people out of the rubbles.

“Those who were seriously wounded were immediately taken to hospital for treatment.”

The building, christened “F and G Event Centre”, located on the Ijero-Ido-Ekiti Road, with over 250 occupants, had its roof and walls receded around 4p.m on Sept. 2 during a burial reception.

NAN reports that the scene of the incident was littered with spilled food served at the event, broken bottles, shoes, male caps, female wigs and headgears, amongst others items. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Sam Oditah

UNIMAID alumni visit, support patients in hospital to mark Shettima’s birthday
Health

UNIMAID alumni visit, support patients in hospital to mark Shettima’s birthday

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By Jessica Dogo

Abuja, Sept. 3, 2023 (NAN) The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of the University of Maiduguri Alumni Association has paid the medical bills of 51 patients at the National Hospital, Abuja, to mark the 57th birthday of Vice-President Kashim Shettima.

The Chairman of the association, Baba Shettima-Kukawa, who led the delegation on Sunday, said that the gesture was to support and comfort patients battling with different ailments at the hospital.

Shettima-Kukawa called on well-meaning Nigerians and other associations to replicate the same gesture by touching lives.

“The visit itself is an eye opener, a lot of us here have felt differently about life in general.

“There is a lot of wisdom in the message of the Vice President that he does not want funds to be spent  on congratulatory messages, and that  such  funds should be channelled towards humanitarian activities.

“And I think Nigeria has to do more of such things rather than wasting money on such things that cannot benefit humanity,” he said.

According to him, this is the beginning of so many other such gestures to come.

“If this is just one hospital in FCT, you can imagine how many hospitals across the country that need to be supported,” he said.

The Managing Director of Suntrust Bank, Halima Buba, who is also a member of the association, called on Nigerians to come out of their comfort zones and extend a hand of support to patients in the hospitals.

“I do not think this gesture takes anything. I encourage people to come to the hospital and see what others are going through.

“If you visit such places, you will appreciate what God has done for you.

“I would like to encourage our association and our friends and relatives to take time and visit the sick people in hospitals and see how they can assist them. It is very important,” she said.

The Chairman of Vodi Group, a Nigerian Clothing Brand, Seyi Adekunle, said that the association would go back to the drawing board to do better as individuals and as a group.

“I am touched by what I saw today, and I will ensure that the message is conveyed in strong terms and in a very short time we will respond and see how we can alleviate the issues sighted today,” he said.

Mr Mohammed Hashiru Halilu, a father to conjoined twins, who had been in the hospital for over two years, urged the Federal Government for financial support in payment for surgeries.

He said one of the twins was going through a congenital heart defect.

”As a father I plead with the government to wade into this matter and come to our aid so that through the surgery, the twins will be separated before the heart surgery on one of them is carried out.

“I would like to appreciate members of this wonderful organisation for their support,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that areas visited within the hospital included the male, female, and children trauma wards. (NAN)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman/Idris Abdulrahman

2024 Olympics Qualifiers: Nigeria faces tough opposition in Africa Rugby fixtures
Sports

2024 Olympics Qualifiers: Nigeria faces tough opposition in Africa Rugby fixtures

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By Emmanuel Afonne

The Nigerian rugby national team, the Black Stallions, have been placed in a dicey pool as the team bids to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games scheduled to hold in Paris, France.

The Olympics will  hold from July 26 to Aug. 11, 2024 with most of the events taking place at the 80,698 capacity Stade de France, the national stadium of France.

A statement issued on Sunday by Tony Nezianya, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), stated that Nigeria were drawn to face world number 21, Namibia and world number 33, Kenya.

Nigeria’s Black Stallions who are world number 69 will also face Zambia who are 68 in the World Rugby rankings following the draw for the fixtures released by the Rugby Afrique for the tournament.

The Africa qualifiers will be held from Sept. 16 and Sept. 17 in Zimbabwe and it would be Nigeria’s first Olympics in rugby if the team qualified.

The Black Stallions are expected to take on Shujas of Kenya, one of the strongest powerhouses in African Rugby, on Sept. 16 before taking on Zambia, and the Welwitschias of Namibia.

It would be recalled that the Black Stallions finished second at the pre Olympic qualifiers in Mauritius earlier in the year where they lost to Algeria in the final.

The team lost in the final to Algeria 24-5 having defeated Ghana 24-7 in the opening match before beating Burundi 43 -14 and in the last pool match blew away Congo 43-0.

The Coach Steve Lewis tutored side thrashed Botswana 33-5 to qualify for the semi-finals where they met a highly determined Cote D’Ivoire side who also lost to them 20-12.

The Kenya rugby Sevens team, fondly called Shujaa, a Swahili word meaning courage, confidence, bravery, or heroism, will be aiming for their third consecutive appearance at the Olympics.

Namibia who finished fifth at the last qualifiers are hoping to do better this time around, while Zambia are hoping to rise from their slumber to upturn the table.

For Nigeria, the Black Stallions are hoping to make it to the Olympics after shocking the world in 2014 by qualifying for the Commonwealth games in Glasgow, Scotland with Steve Lewis in charge. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian  Ihechu

Save vultures to prevent extinction – NCF urges Nigerians
Environment

Save vultures to prevent extinction – NCF urges Nigerians

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By Fabian Ekeruche

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) on Sunday called for the conservation of the declining vulture population in Nigeria to prevent extinction and looming epidemic.

Mr Oladapo Soneye, Communications Manager, NCF, who made the call in a statement in Lagos, said that vultures are the only species of birds/wildlife that fed on carcasses without emitting disease into the atmosphere.

Soneye said: ” vultures are otherwise called nature’s sanitary prefect, because they are the only species of bird/wildlife that feed on carcasses without emitting disease into the atmosphere, unlike other scavengers.

“The absence of vultures can lead to the outbreak of diseases such as anthrax, rabies, etc,” he said.

Soneye said that the NCF had embarked on a rescue mission tagged, “Supporting Community-based Monitoring and Conservation for Vulture Populations in Identified Vulture Safe Zones across Nigeria.”

He said that the goal of the rescue mission was to tackle the declining population of vultures and its associated benefits to the people.

According to him, the project which is supported by the Indianapolis Zoo is part of a series of activities to conserve the remaining vultures in the country.

“The global community commemorated the International Vulture Awareness Day (IVAD) on Sept. 2.

“The NCF is using the opportunity to create more awareness about the importance of vultures in our society, and to harp on some critical efforts it has put in place to help improve the situation.

“The Vulture Safe Zones (VSZ) project is one of the foundation’s efforts designed to protect the remnant vulture populations in their natural environment and support sustainable livelihoods,” Soneye said.

He added that the foundation also leveraged on the VSZ project to preserve the ecosystem benefits of the species, and promote peaceful and positive coexistence between the people and vultures.

The NCF communication manager noted that another goal of the VSZ project was to reverse the negative trends in the viable populations of vultures found in two selected sites in Nigeria.

He explained that some of the VSZ activities was stakeholders’ engagement to identify threats and design livelihood alternatives to associated threats.

He added that the activities also included training of the local community on vulture population monitoring.

“These activities held on July 20 and 21 at Iruowelle Village Community Hall, Awka-Etiti, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

“The training focused on raising the capacity of community-based volunteers within the zones to methodically observe and report the trends in vulture populations in their community, ” he said.

According to Soneye, the trainings are important as it promotes species appreciation and consciousness within the community.

“The volunteers were also supported with monitoring equipment, which included six binoculars, two GPS units, two mobile phones, data sheets and other writing materials, ” he said.

Soneye stressed that Nigeria was home to seven out of the 11 vultures species that existed in Africa.

He listed the seven vulture species existing in Nigeria as including – the Egyptian Vulture – Neophron Percnopterus (Endangered); the Hooded Vulture – Necrosyrtes Monachus (Endangered), and the White-backed Gyps Africanus (Endangered).

“Others are – the White-headed Vulture – Trigonoceps Occipitalis (Vulnerable); the Ruppell’s Griffon – Gyp Rueppellii (Endangered); the Palm-nut Vulture – Gypohierax Angolensis (Least Concern) and the Lappet-faced Vulture -Torgos Tracheliotus – (Endangered),” Soneye said.

He added that the only vulture species that seemed to be thriving in the country were the Hooded Vulture and Palm-nut Vulture. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Oluyinka Fadare

NNPP crisis: Only Kwankwaso has the solution – Stakeholders
Politics

NNPP crisis: Only Kwankwaso has the solution – Stakeholders

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As the crisis in the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) rages on, key stakeholders of the group say that Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, its presidential candidate, is in the best position to restore order.

Some of them, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said that Kwankwaso was the party’s leader who could easily end the raging bad blood by calling a family meeting.

NAN reports that the party recently got enmeshed in a crisis with one faction suspending Kwankwaso and many other top notchers over alleged anti-party activities.

The group specifically accused him of hobnobbing with opponents of the NNPP.

Another group, while reacting to the reported suspension of Kwankwaso, expelled Dr Boniface Aniebonam, founder of the party and former Chairman, Board of Trustees.

With the party swimming in such confusion, stakeholders have suggested a meeting to iron out the issues and chart a way forward.

One such stakeholder is Mr Mordecai Ibrahim, a House of Assembly candidate in Kaduna State.

“Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso as the leader of the party should call a meeting where we can carry out a post-mortem on the 2023 general elections.

“All factions must sheathe heir swords and allow internal democracy.

“The party must put an end to all forms of highhandedness. We must tolerate each other’s excesses.

“No one is fighting Kwankwaso in NNPP. He must call a meeting quickly because we are loosing members in droves,” he said.

A national official of the party, who pleaded anonymity, spoke in the same vein.

“Sen. Kwankwaso should say something. His silence is too loud. His silence is affecting the party’s breath,” he told NAN in a telephone interview.

Contacted, Dr Aniebonam said that the subject matter is a family issue.

“It is my hope that Senator Kwankwaso will recover quickly from avoidable circumstances.

“I have not made any public statement over what is going on in the party, neither has Kwankwaso.

“The party has boys that are merely struggling for relevance and stomach infrastructure, especially the inappropriate National Working Committee members.

“I am aware that Sen. Kwankwaso may be really very angry because he advised over the rascality of the illegitimate group.

“But, I can assure you that whatever happens, NNPP shall come out stronger after these avoidable circumstances.

“It is just part of politics and society. What is most important to me and Sen. Kwankwaso at the moment is the Kano State standoff and enthronement of good governance,” he said.

Aniebonam urged Nigerians to put his people in the NNPP into prayers.

“I particularly want Nigerians to pray for Kwankwaso and the governor of Kano State to overcome challenges of good governance and envy,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ephraims Sheyin

Recall of ambassadors, bold move for diplomatic rebirth – Ex-NIDO president
Foreign

Recall of ambassadors, bold move for diplomatic rebirth – Ex-NIDO president

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By Fortune Abang

Victor Ikoli, a former President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), Qatar chapter has described President Bola Tinubu’s recall of Nigerian envoys globally, including Qatar, a bold move for diplomatic rebirth.

Ikoli made this known in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Sunday .

Tinubu had on Saturday recalled all Nigeria’s career and non-career ambassadors.

Ikoli, while commending development, however, noted that said such could pose implications for Nigeria’s diplomatic position and relations with Qatar.

“While the decision to recall ambassadors may have its reasons and benefits, it is essential to consider the potential adverse impacts on ongoing diplomatic relations

“The decision by President Tinubu to recall all 97 Nigerian ambassadors from embassies and high commissions across the globe, including Qatar, undoubtedly carries significant implications for Nigeria’s diplomatic standing and its relations with Qatar.

“Former Ambassador of Nigeria to Qatar, Yakubu Ahmed’s two years tenure in Qatar facilitated the development of strong bilateral relations and paved the way for various opportunities,” he said.

According to him, one immediate concern is the potential disruption of these positive developments; the ambassador’s valuable experience and established relationships have been instrumental in advancing Nigeria-Qatar relations.

“With the upcoming Qatar Expo 2023 in October, the absence of a senior diplomatic representative from Nigeria could have adverse consequences.

“This event is not only an opportunity for economic and cultural exchange but also a moment where diplomatic representation is crucial,” he said.

He underscored the need for urgent steps to be taken to sustain the already cordial relationship enjoyed between Nigeria and Qatar, and avoid challenges the absence of senior diplomats often posed at foreign missions.

According to him, the recall could introduce uncertainty regarding the timeline for the appointment of a new ambassador.

“Diplomatic transitions can be complex and time-consuming, potentially leaving Nigeria without a senior diplomat in Qatar for an extended period.

“During this gap, Nigerian citizens and businesses may lack effective representation in Qatar, and the country’s interests could be at risk.

“Moreover, the proactive stance of Qatar in protecting its citizens and residents through diplomatic missions is well-known.

“Without a senior diplomat to speak for Nigerians, there might be challenges in addressing the needs and concerns of Nigerian expatriates in Qatar promptly,” he added.

He reiterated the need for proper management of the transition process and swift appointment of new ambassador, adding that such had become important to maintain and further Nigeria’s diplomatic interests in Qatar.

Earlier in a statement, Presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale, said the recall was sequel to Tinubu’s review of the state of affairs at Nigerian Consulate Offices and Embassies worldwide.

According to him, Tinubu is determined to ensure international best practices characterised foreign and domestic service delivery to Nigerian citizens, residents and foreigners.

Nigeria’s Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in New York and Geneva were exempted from the recall, due to the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, to hold in September, 2023. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

My first impressions in Nigeria — British Deputy High Commissioner
Foreign

My first impressions in Nigeria — British Deputy High Commissioner

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By Oladele Eniola

The British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr Jonny Baxter, says his first few weeks in Nigeria has revealed the people as passionate, full of energy, and with entrepreneurial spirit

Baxter, who is new in office, said this in his maiden media interview, with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, on Thursday.

“ I have been here for three and a half weeks so I’m still very new. Nigeria has been an absolutely amazing place to be and as you will know, Nigeria, is well known to UK.

“I was really looking forward to coming to Nigeria, particularly to Lagos, to enjoy the vibrant culture, the vibrant food, all of the things that Lagos produces and is well known for and I have been lucky enough to come across all those things.

“Meeting Nigerians has been fantastic and the welcome I have had has been absolutely incredible. I love the fact that all the Nigerians I have met have been passionate, have been full of energy for the things that they are talking about and things they care about.

“ I have really noticed the entrepreneurial spirit and those things are just brilliant to be around, as you can’t help but be uplifted by it. And you know, I’ve been so lucky to meet an incredible group of people already,” he said.

He said that in his short time in the country, he had been able to visit the beach, amongst other exciting places.

“So I went I went out to a beach and I sat quietly for a while and read Jagua Nana, which is quite an old book by Cyprian Ekwensi, and really enjoyed doing that,” he said.

The envoy said that it was fantastic, when after tweeting about it afterwards, he got brilliant responses from Nigerians and suggestions on other things he could do.

He said he had also enjoyed his visit to the Lufasi Nature Park, where he got to see both the amazing work that had been done there, and also the children and the students who were enjoying the place of peace in the city that is alive all the time.

“Suddenly, there is this green space where you can sit down and enjoy the trees, hear the birds and that was a lovely, lovely trip, so I’ve enjoyed all of that,” he said.

On Nigerian cuisine, he said, “everyone has asked me about Jollof rice, and I already had Jollof rice, and I really enjoyed it. That has been fantastic.

“There are some things that I haven’t tasted, but I’m looking forward to eating more Nigerian food and just experiencing what there is,” he said.

He reiterated his commitment to strengthening the bilateral relations between both countries.

Baxter, before becoming the British Deputy High Commissioner (DHC) in Lagos, served as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan from January 2021-July 2023.

He was Deputy Director, Finance and Performance Department at the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office – FCDO (then DFID) from 2018-2020.

He has held various senior positions in the Department of International Development (DFID).

These include running the Human Development Department from 2017-2018, Principal Private Secretary to the Secretary of State from 2014-2016, and head of the Higher Education Taskforce Secretariat from 2013-2014 all at the DFID Headquarters, London.

Prior to these roles, he did postings in Sudan, Iraq, Guyana and Tanzania.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

UK granted 132,000 visas to Nigerians in first half 2023 — Envoy
Foreign

UK granted 132,000 visas to Nigerians in first half 2023 — Envoy

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By Oladele Eniola

The United Kingdom issued some 132,000 visas to Nigerians in the first half of the year, Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

He revealed the number in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday.

Baxter, however, could not readily give the total number of applications received from Nigerians during the period.

“In the first half of the year, we granted approximately 132,000 visas, and those are all sorts of visas which include visit, work and study visas.

“In the previous full year before that, we issued about 324,000. The UK, in that year, issued about three million visas, and of those three million visas, 324,000 were issued to Nigerians, which is about 10 percent.

“ If you think about Nigeria’s population, relative to the world, that’s actually a higher proportion of Nigerians taking up those visas and coming to the UK which I view is a good thing.

“The UK has a huge number of Nigerian students in the country, and in terms of foreign students in the UK, Nigeria is second only to India.

“We welcome and value the many Nigerians that we have coming to the UK to study or settle, as long as they are coming through legal routes, and it is important that the country’s rules are followed and respected,” he said.

Baxter reiterated that change in the rules of students bringing dependents was a necessity, based on an international challenge.

“ In 2019, Nigerian students going to the UK brought in 1,500 dependents. By 2022/2023, that number had risen to 52,000 dependents, that’s a massive increase.

“ Nigeria is not unique, as it has happened for many other countries and indeed, this change on the dependents is an international challenge.

“It is not surprising that a country, Britain in this case, that is facing that kind of change to the numbers of people coming in the country, wants to look at the policy and would want to change and amend their policy.

“This is definitely not a case of saying that we don’t want students to come, we definitely want students still to come, and the new policy would come in in January 2024.”

He explained that UK government reviews its visa fees on a regular basis, noting that increments are taken when it becomes a necessity.

“What the British government has decided to do is they review fees all the time, and they’ve decided that because of the cost of processing visas, those costs that people applying for visas need to pay should go up as well.

“The other thing that I think is probably not often recognised is that, for some of those people who are going to the UK and are in some limited circumstances, those people will access services when they are in the UK and those services cost money.

“So, part of the money out of the fees in the visa process will be to pay for those services that in certain circumstances, some people may need to access when they’re there. So for me, that’s an entirely justifiable thing.

“But I completely understand it is important for us to explain it so people understand reasons for increment,” he said.

He advised the public to always apply for visa well ahead of their scheduled travels, noting that there are processes and time frames in granting visas. (NAN) ( www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

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