NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Tinubu pledges commitment to sustainable infrastructure
General News

Tinubu pledges commitment to sustainable infrastructure

122 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network, Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6, pledging his administration’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure that directly improve citizens’ lives.

He described the water network as a transformative effort to guarantee safe, sustainable, and sufficient water for homes, institutions, and communities across the capital city.

“Water is life. It is not a luxury. It is a basic human right and a foundation for public health, urban development, and economic growth,” the President said.

He lauded the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) led by Nyesom Wike and all project stakeholders for their dedication to the project.

The president emphasised that the Renewed Hope Agenda focused on delivering tangible, people-centred projects that impacted the daily lives of Nigerians.

“This water infrastructure is not only a technical milestone, but a moral one, because it is about equity.

” It ensures that no part of Abuja is left behind in our national development agenda.

“When we speak of the Renewed Hope Agenda, we mean tangible, people-focused projects that improve the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians.

” Water to drink, to clean, to grow, to build; that is a real project. It’s a treasure that we always take for granted.

“We are not here today merely to lay the pipes.

” We are laying the groundwork for healthier families, stronger communities, and a more productive city,” he stated.

Tinubu thanked the international development partners, especially the Chinese government and CGC Nigeria Ltd., for their collaboration on the project.

“We are showing the world that partnership built on mutual respect and shared prosperity can deliver real impact,” he said.

The president urged residents to safeguard the infrastructure.

” As we commission this vital project, I urge all residents and stakeholders to protect this investment.

‘ Use the water wisely and work with the government to ensure sustainability,” he added.

Wike, on his part , thanked the president for his continued support and practical interest in developing the capital city.

“Mr President, on behalf of the residents and administration of the FCT, we sincerely appreciate and thank you for taking the time to be with us again.

” Today marks the fourth day of the commissioning programme, ” Wike said.

He recounted the president’s early inquiries into Abuja’s infrastructure after assuming office.

“I recall that when you came on board, you invited me and asked me one or two questions.

“One is, ‘Why is the mass transit train not working?’

” You said, ‘I want to ride on that train.’

“Secondly, you asked, ‘What is happening to the Abuja water supply?’

” You made it clear: ‘It’s not only rail infrastructure.

” We want the train to work and the water to be supplied to the city,” he said.

Wike explained that the project was initially awarded in 2017 for 470 million dollars under a tripartite financing arrangement involving the Chinese Government (85 per cent), Federal Government and FCT Administration (15 per cent).

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to extend water infrastructure to underserved communities.

“Last year when you (Mr President) visited China—luckily for us, I was part of the delegation.

” The FCT also signed an agreement with CGC to provide water to rural areas.

“We are almost done with procurement to give water to Bwari, Kuje, Karu, and other communities.

” So we are not only providing water to the city but also to the satellite towns,” said Wike.

He assured the president that future rural water projects would be delivered swiftly.

“It will not take years like this one.

” We believe that by next year, during your third anniversary, we’ll commission those satellite town projects where you provide water,” the minister stated.

He also praised the National Assembly for their support.

“Every day, we’ll make sure that people will see-those who want to see and those who don’t want to see.

” It’s not your fault—because they decided not to see,” he said.

Richard Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), said the new loops were designed to serve 50 districts across Phases Two, Three, and Four, including the FCT’s northern and southern development corridors.

“Of the planned 10 loops, Loops 3 and 4 are already operational, supplying water from four completed storage tanks.

“The Greater Abuja Water Supply Project involves the construction of additional pipeline networks—Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6, according to the city’s master plan,” he said.

He explained that the project included installing secondary trunk lines to ensure effective distribution to end users.

According to Dauda, 425 kilometres of ductile iron pipes, ranging from 200mm to 1500mm in diameter, are being laid, comprising 256 kilometres of main trunk lines and 169 kilometres of distribution lines.

The project also includes 1,670 appurtenances, such as valves and air release systems.

“Upon completion, the project would significantly improve access to potable water for residents of Abuja,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mufutau Ojo

Army tasks warrant officers, others on combat readiness
Defence/Security

Army tasks warrant officers, others on combat readiness

152 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Army Headquarters Garrison, on Monday commenced the 2025 Warrant Officers and Senior Non-commissioned Officers Competition to test their fitness and combat readiness.

The competition is part of the training and exercises designed to enhance the physical fitness and combat efficiency of the soldiers of the Nigerian Army for the year.

In his remarks, the Garrison Commander, Maj.-Gen. Maxwell Dangana, has emphasised the need for soldiers to build the necessary skills to survive and defeat the adversaries on the battlefield.

Dangana, who was represented by the Garrison’s Chief of Staff, Brig.-Gen. Peter Elayo, said the competition was meant to build team spirit among the senior non-commissioned officers being the custodians of army tradition.

He said the event would help to increase their level of alertness, sharpen their skills, and make them more proficient in every area of soldiering.

The Garrison Training Officer, Brig.-Gen. Ndareke Orok, said the competition was designed to showcase their leadership expertise, resilience, and professionalism that defined them as a force.

Orok said the Nigerian army recognised the role of warrant officers and senior non-commission officers in a world where security challenges were ever evolving, adding that they remained the backbone of the army.

He said that their ability to lead, monitor and impart soldiers was essential to the success of the missions and the well-being of the various establishments, formations and units of the Nigerian army.

“This competition is not just a test of individual skills, it is a celebration of the collective strength, knowledge and dedication that you all bring to the table.

“Over a few days, you will engage in drill, weapon handling, map reading, point-to-point navigation, swimming and obstacle crossing.

“You will also engage in physical fitness tests and range shooting.

“This variety of events that will push the limits of your physical capability, tactical proficiency and strategic thinking, are designed not just to assess your performance, but to reinforce the bond of teamwork and collaboration that are the hallmark of our army,” he said.

Orok urged them to remember some of the core values of leadership, integrity and respect for one another, which defined them as an army.

According to him, win or lose, what matters most is our commitment to learning from each experience and supporting one another as we strive to become better, both as an individual and as an army. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

FIRS directs opening of tax offices on weekends
Economy/Business

FIRS directs opening of tax offices on weekends

108 total views today

By Kadiri Abdulrahman

The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, has directed the extension of tax office operations to weekends for the month of June.

Adedeji gave the directive in a statement issued by Dare Adekanmbi, the Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman.

According to Adekambi, it is part of Adedeji’s commitment to matching the agency’s customer-centric policy with tangible action.

“With the directive, tax offices are expected to open for business from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays throughout the month of June,” he said.

“The weekend service, which started on June 14, will end on Sunday, June 29.

“It is aimed at helping companies that are mandated by law to file their tax returns by the end of the month meet up with the deadline,” he said.

He said that the coordinating directors of Large Taxpayers Group, Government and Medium Taxpayers Group, as well as Emerging Taxpayers Group had conveyed the decision of the management to all staff in the tax offices.

“As you are aware, the month of June marks the peak of the annual Companies Income Tax (CIT) filling season.

“Many taxpayers which financial year ends December 31, are expected to file their tax returns by June 30.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the FIRS chairman on assumption of office, reorganised tax operations for ease of tax payment.

This has led the transformation of the agency from merely being a tax-collecting entity to a service-providing body. (NAN)(www.nannwws.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Oyetola woos Island nations for IMO Council seat
Foreign

Oyetola woos Island nations for IMO Council seat

123 total views today

By Aisha Cole

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has held meetings with leaders from several island nations to solicit support for Nigeria’s bid for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council later this year.

The Media Adviser to the minister, Mr Bolaji Akinola, said the minister met separately with the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Mr James Marape; the Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dr Joyelle Clarke; and the Minister of Home Affairs, Climate Change and Environment of Tuvalu, Dr Maina Vakafua Talia.

Akinola said that the meetings underscored Nigeria’s commitment to building alliances with countries that, though geographically distant, share common vulnerabilities and aspirations within the global maritime community.

Oyetola explained that Nigeria’s quest for a seat on the IMO Council was not driven by ambition alone but to ensure greater representation for African nations, developing countries, and vulnerable coastal and island states in global maritime decision-making.

He assured that Nigeria would be a reliable ally advocating for stronger global commitments to maritime decarbonisation.

The minister highlighted that the country’s dedication to these principles was underscored by the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 by President Bola Tinubu.

Oyetola explained Nigeria’s renewed commitment to sustainable ocean governance, blue economic growth, and building resilience against climate change.

He described how Nigeria was reimagining its relationship with the sea through initiatives ranging from port modernisation and enhanced maritime security to ocean sustainability and the development of coastal communities.

Oyetola said that Nigeria was not merely seeking support in isolation but extending an offer of partnership.

He mentioned a vision for an IMO Council that actively protects the interests of the most vulnerable nations and noted that Nigeria would use its voice, its vote, and its regional influence to advocate priorities of developing nations.

He further stated that Nigeria is prepared to push for a more equitable maritime regulatory framework that acknowledges disparities in national capacities, supports accessible climate-smart shipping technologies, and fosters practical cooperation in the development of sustainable blue economies between island nations and African coastal states like Nigeria.

Oyetola explained the nation’s readiness to serve as a credible voice for developing nations within the international maritime system, forging alliances based on shared challenges and mutual interests.

He stated that as the IMO Council elections approach, Nigeria was positioning itself as a Category C candidate committed to inclusivity, equity, and climate-resilient maritime development in an increasingly interconnected and environmentally vulnerable world. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Catchball launch set to empower girls
Sports

Catchball launch set to empower girls

157 total views today

By Babatunde Ogunrinde

The Nigeria Catchball Federation (NCF) says Catchball, a new sport in Nigeria, offers competitive benefits and has strong potential to empower the girl child.

A delegation from the NCF stated this during a visit to the Lagos State Sports Commission headquarters at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, on Monday.

The team was received by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende.

The delegation was led by NCF President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Bola Babarinde.

Other members included Mr Ayotunde Ayodeji, Chief Operating Officer, and Dr Ijeoma Ladele, Director of Chapter Development.

Ladele described Catchball as a fast-growing sport for women of all ages, which is quickly gaining traction across Africa.

She highlighted its recreational and competitive value, as well as its ability to empower young girls.

According to her, Catchball reduces street involvement and promotes both mental and physical well-being.

“Lagos has the opportunity to pioneer this sport in Nigeria,” she said.

She added it would drive grassroots sports, empower girls, and boost youth engagement.

In his address, Babarinde noted Catchball’s registration and official recognition journey in Nigeria.

He commended Mr Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, for his support.

He also acknowledged Mr Anthony Adeyinka, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development.

“Their intervention helped secure federation registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission despite initial challenges,” he noted.

Babarinde, also General Secretary of Renewed Hope Global, said the agenda targets 20 million jobs before President Tinubu’s first term ends.

He said Catchball is one of the key employment-generating initiatives under this agenda.

“Lagos will have the honour of launching Catchball, with plans to expand it to secondary and tertiary institutions,” he said.

He added that local government education authorities would integrate it into primary schools as well.

“The long-term plan includes launching a National Catchball League,” he explained.

This would happen after successful adoption across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Mr Nunayon Travih, Director of Sports, Lagos State, expressed willingness to partner with the NCF.

He revealed plans to establish a dedicated department for Catchball in the state. “A joint working committee will ensure smooth implementation,” Travih said.

Dr Oluyomi Oluwasanmi, Director of School Sports, also praised Catchball’s potential to engage Lagos youths.

She said its similarity to volleyball allows players and coaches to transition easily. “It offers a fresh option within the busy school sports calendar,” she noted.

Ogunlende thanked the NCF for selecting Lagos as the launchpad for the sport.

He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusive sports, especially those empowering girls.

He also noted the urgency of the meeting, ahead of Babarinde’s trip to South Africa.

The NCF president will attend the Africa Catchball Championship from June 16 to 26.

Other Lagos dignitaries present included Damilare Orimoloye, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports.

Also present were representatives of the Lagos State Sports Commission and other NCF members.

They included Blessing Oluwatimiro, Miss Naomi Nnaji, Haleemah Ojo, and Itohan Imoisili.

According to them, the meeting, held at the Commission’s boardroom, marks the start of a promising sports partnership in Lagos. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Kamal Tayo Oropo

NMC workers protest exclusion from N50bn earned allowance
Education

NMC workers protest exclusion from N50bn earned allowance

1,001 total views today
By Jacinta Nwachukwu
Staff members of National Mathematical Centre (NMC) have protested their exclusion from the N50 billion Earned Academic Allowances (EAAs) approved by the Federal Government for university workers.
The workers, under the auspices of Congress of University Academics, NMC Chapter (CONUA-NMC), raised their complaints in a letter to the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa.
A copy of the letter signed by Comrades Awogbemi Adeyeye and Okorie Okike, Chairman and Secretary of the union, respectively was made available to newsmen in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that the Federal Government recently released the sum of N50 billion to universities as earned allowances. It is to be shared between academic and non-academic staff.
The union leaders urged the minister to use his good office to ensure payment of the earned allowance for all deserving academic staff members of the NMC from 2013 till date.
They equally demanded the payment of their Field Trip, SIWES Allowance, Postgraduate Study Grants Allowance and other allowances.
“Sir, we are fully aware that the current Minister of Education is a man of justice who carefully studies every case on its merit.
“In the light of this, CONUA-NMC therefore requests that you use your good office to take necessary action for the implementation of the contents of the memo from National Salaries, Incomes & Wages Commission.
“The memo confirmed, without any ambiguity, that NMC academic staffers are entitled to be paid EAAS based on ASUU 2009 Agreement with Federal Government,’ the union leaders wrote.
To further justify their entitlement to the allowances, like in other regular universities, they said NMC is an inter-university centre.
According to them, NMC is saddled with the mandate of improving the teaching and learning of mathematical sciences at all strata of educational system in Nigeria.
“One of the core responsibilities of the centre is to train high level personnel in Mathematical Sciences.
‘This responsibility is carried out through the conduct of Foundation Postgraduate Courses (FPCs) and Research Oriented Courses (ROCs) for Postgraduate Students and Lecturers in Tertiary Institutions (including all the Federal Universities).
‘The direct implication of this is that the centre serves as a service provider to all the universities in Nigeria,’ they said.
The union leaders also contended that, since NMC has its peculiarities and all its academic staff members are scientists, strictly exposed to laboratory hazards, they should be paid hazard allowance.
According to them, the non-academic workers in the centre were being paid hazard allowance along with their salaries on monthly basis, therefore, there is no justification for exclusion of their members.
“We make it bold to say that the academic staff members at NMC make enormous contributions to national development and as such should be treated on the same page with the university lecturers.
“Sir, we shall be looking forward to seeing you take necessary action that will permanently resolve this painful exclusion once and for all,” they said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Fatima Sule Abdullahi/Rotimi Ijikanmi
Kperogi cautions journalists on dangers of AI
Science & Tech

Kperogi cautions journalists on dangers of AI

161 total views today
By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
Farooq Kperogi, a Nigerian-American Professor and newspaper columnist, has called on journalists not to allow Artificial Intelligence (AI) to erase their uniqueness, humanity and individuality.
The media scholar gave the advice during an interactive session with the Editorial Management Board of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday, at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
“The biggest challenge in the practice of journalism now, is the impact of Artificial Intelligence.
“During our days in school, some of us had to memorise the dictionary, punctuations and many others. So, I write in a unique style, but now, ChatGPT can do that more flawlessly.
“However, I oppose using AI to write news, because it erases our individuality; if everyone writes same way, then, there will be a problem.
“I have developed a style of writing over the years. So, it will be too late for me to start using AI to write story.
“Your style is unique to you, it is your signature, but AI is threatening to erase all of that,” he said.
According to him, AI imposes American style of writing, which he describes as “linguistic imperialism”.
Kperogi posited that imperialism is unacceptable, because what makes humanity unique is its uniqueness and diversity, culminating to a popular saying, “variety is the spice of life”.
“By and large, while ChatGPT helps for interpretation of data, information and other tasks, we should still maintain our uniqueness.
“Our writing bears the weight of our identity, social historic experiences, and we don’t want to wipe out that in the name of convenience.
“As much as we should use AI tools to improve our works, we should be self- conscious of the damaging long term effects,” he said.
The Don, however, dismissed the fear that AI would take over the jobs of media practitioners and lead to job loss.
He said, if deployed with caution, AI will not take over jobs, but enhance them, because it will be deployed as a tool to support judgment and uniqueness, not as a replacement.
“When it comes to feature article writing, you cannot use ChatGPT. The tool fails miserably, because feature writing centralises human beings as we all know.
So, AI is a tool being used to enhance journalistic work, but it has no capacity to replace human beings in journalistic works,” he said.
Kperogi commended NAN for maintaining neutrality in its reportage in spite of the fact that the agency is funded by the Federal Government.
“What makes NAN stand out is the neutrality of your tone, independence of your voice, and the objectivity that you always display in your reportage.
“AI models have no capacity to make you renounce that; so let’s resist it and be ourselves,” Kperogi stressed.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali M. Ali commended the don for the validation of NAN, adding that his relationship with Kperogi spans three decades.
Ali said he has always cautioned journalists on the use of AI.
“AI reflects your own personality; the smarter you are, the better you use AI. You have to be mindful of your linguistic identity.
“We all have our uniqueness and we should not allow AI to take that away from us,” Ali said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
Food Security: FG to review country’s agricultural laws
Agriculture

Food Security: FG to review country’s agricultural laws

144 total views today
By Doris Esa
The Federal Government has taken steps to review Nigeria’s agricultural laws to promote agriculture development and enhance food and nutrition security in the country.
Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, stated this on Monday at the opening of the stakeholders’ workshop and input on the Nigeria Agricultural Laws Reform in Abuja.
Abdullahi said that these laws which are the subjects of review or amendment, have been enacted for a very long time to provide the legal frame works for the promotion of development of the agricultural sector.
“The sector’s dynamism is evident in the shift from traditional farming practices to more modern techniques, diversification of crops and livestock and adaptation to changing weather patterns.
“This is in addition to the challenges of insecurity, climate change and high input costs which continued to affect agricultural inputs.
“In view of the above, it is imperative to formulate legal frameworks to facilitate the key aspects of improvement in Nigerian agriculture aimed at addressing the problems affecting the sector,” he said.
He said that government policies and initiatives are aimed to boost agricultural production to meet the food needs of the growing population.
Abdullahi said that efforts were being made to support smallholder farmers through access to finance, training and technology.
He said that there was a growing awareness of the need to address gender inequality in agriculture and empowering women to participate in decision making and access resources.
Abdullahi said the review of the Nigerian Co-operative Societies Act was a priority, as it was intended to feature among the President’s legacy achievements under his Cooperative Revamp and Reform Initiative.
He said that the Federal Government’s approach to agriculture is multifaceted, encompassing policy development, financial support and infrastructural development.
“The goal is to create a thriving and sustainable agricultural sector that can contribute to food security, economic growth and overall well-being of Nigerians.
“Some of these laws have, however, become obsolete, archaic and outdated necessitating this assignment,” he said.
In his remarks, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, said a strong and robust legal framework was crucial for the agricultural sector.
Earlier, Mr Isimbabi Garba, Director, Legal Services in the ministry, underscored
the urgent need to reform and reposition Nigeria’s legal framework to support a modern, vibrant, and resilient agricultural economy.
Garba said the event also represented a significant step towards strengthening the country’s agricultural sector and ensuring food security for the nation.
“Agricultural law reform is crucial to Nigeria’s economic growth, food security and sustainable development.
“The law plays a significant role in shaping the agricultural sector, and updating our laws will help us address emerging challenges and opportunities.
“Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, and reforming our laws will help us enhance productivity and efficiency, promote sustainable practices, support small-scale farmers, attract investments and improve food security,” he said.
He said the ministry, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, is taking a bold and timely step to ensure that Nigeria’s laws reflected the realities of today and the aspirations of tomorrow. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
CDS vows to end banditry in Nigeria
Defence/Security

CDS vows to end banditry in Nigeria

157 total views today

By Emmanuel Antswen

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has vowed to end banditry in Nigeria.

Musa made the vow on Monday at Yelwata town, Guma Local Government Area of Benue, where scores were killed in coordinated attacks on Friday night.

The CDS said the Nigerian Armed Forces would leave no stone unturned to ensure that such devastating attacks were not recorded in the country again.

He also assured that wherever the attackers were, the forces would get them and neutralise them, adding that the Yelwata attack would be their last act.

Musa admitted that there were officers who compromised and gave out information but that such officers were no longer in service.

He said that there was evidence that the bandits had their targets, thereby establishing the fact that there were insiders that aided them.

“I’m going to see my commanders, and we have to change our strategy. We want to look inward and see how we can address this.

“We used to have even within us people that compromise and give information. Going around the scene, the way the killing and burnings were made shows that they had insiders.

“I discussed with community leaders, traditional rulers and the clergy on the need for us to work in unity.

“There have been some issues of trust, and we are going to address it,” he said.

Musa said more deployments would be made, adding that he would embark on a similar visit to Nasarawa on Tuesday.

The CDS condoled with the Benue Government, Gov. Hyacinth Alia, and all victims of banditry attacks, especially the people of Yelwata town, over their losses.

He advised them to remain strong and steadfast, as hope has already arrived.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the CDS, while in Yelwata, held a closed meeting with community leaders and stakeholders.

NAN also reports that Musa inspected the scene of the crime and made a cash donation to the IDPs. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Peter Amine

D-8 preferential trade agreement targets 0bn in intra-trade by 2030
Economy/Business

D-8 preferential trade agreement targets $500bn in intra-trade by 2030

118 total views today

By Vivian Emoni

Amb. Isiaka Imam, Secretary-General, D-8, Organisation for Economic Cooperation, says the organisation is focusing on achieving a target of 500 billion dollars in intra-trade among member countries by 2030.

Imam disclosed this at the 8th Session of Supervisory Committee of D-8 Preferential Trade Agreement (8th SC PTA), in Abuja on Monday.

According to him, this target is part of the D-8 decennial roadmap, which oulines the organisations’ goals for the period of 2020 to 2030.

“In 2023, intra-D-8 trade reached approximately 146 billion dollars, representing only seven per cent of the total external trade of the D-8 member-states.

“In other regional blocs, intra-group trade typically ranges from 15 per cent to over 30 per cent.

“The D-8’s intra-trade share of seven per cent signals a significant under-utilisation of our collective potential.

“This persistent low percentage highlights a significant opportunity to intensify our efforts to do more, to reach the target of 10 per cent of the D-8 global trade value, set by our leaders,” he said.

Imam said that the best time for the D-8 PTA, to be used, to help shield member-states’ economies, should be now.

He said that for the PTA to be more impactful, in the face of rapid changes in the global economic landscape, more work needed to be done.

“It is based on this premise, I wish to, respectfully, propose the following measures to strengthen and modernise the PTA.

“The first is the adoption of electronic customs systems, and single-window platforms, which can significantly reduce transaction costs and improve transparency.

“The D-8 may consider launching a feasibility study to explore such digital trade facilitation tools, relevant to our needs.

“Also, a clearer and more flexible rules of origin can reduce compliance burdens and encourage greater use of the PTA,” he said.

Dr Jumoke Oduwule, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, said that the meeting came at a time when regional cooperation and economic integration must be accelerated to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Oduwole said that there was significant progress in domesticating the PTA and aligning national trade policies with its provisions.

“Our recent ratification efforts and inter-agency coordination underscore our resolve to lead by example in deepening regional economic integration,” she said

The minister urged the committee to adopt a results-oriented approach to the
deliberations.

She also advised the committee to emerge from the session with actionable outcomes, clear timelines, and mechanisms for accountability.

She urged the committee to fast-track the implementation of tariff concessions and rules of origin across member states.

Oduwole urged the committee to enhance the engagement of the private sector, the true engine of trade by facilitating access to information, trade opportunities, and finance.

“We must strengthen technical cooperation and knowledge exchange to
support Micro, Small and Medium-size Enterprises (MSMEs) improve standards and build industrial capacity.

“We must foster institutional mechanisms that encourage trade in services, digital trade, and investment promotion within the D-8 space.

“We also need to prioritise youth and women in trade, as we build inclusive economies that harness the full potential of our populations,” he said.

Oduwole, however, urged the committee to take a pragmatic, forward-looking approach.

According to her, we must move beyond procedural conversations and focus on concrete action to elevate the D-8 PTA from a promising framework to a living instrument for economic transformation.

“Your steadfast contributions have made today’s meeting a reality and will continue to shape the outcomes we seek.

“Our shared success lies, not just in the texts we ratify, but in the lives we impact,” she said.

Amb. Nura Rimi, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, said that Nigeria remained committed to the objectives of the D-8 and was active in the realisation of its trade and development aspirations.

“We believe that through collective action, practical policy reforms, and mutual support, the PTA can unlock significant opportunities for our private sector and citizens alike.

“One way of doing this is through the embrace of digital trade, and Nigeria will like to champion this cause in the D-8,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation comprises eight developing countries with significant economic potential.

It aims to promote intra-regional trade and economic cooperation among member states. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

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