Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Yusuf Tuggar, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to having closer economic and diplomatic cooperation with China.
Tugger told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in China that tangible progress had been made under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) framework.
Tuggar described FOCAC as not just a forum for discussions but a platform for action.
He spoke on the sidelines of the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of FOCAC Follow-up Actions in Changsha, Hunan Province.
NAN reports that FOCAC, established in 2000, remains the cornerstone of Sino-African relations, providing a framework for cooperation in trade, security, infrastructure development and people-to-people exchanges.
Year 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of FOCAC, and over the past years, China has supported Africa in building or upgrading nearly 100,000km of roads and over 10,000km of railways.
Also, over the past three years, Chinese enterprises have created more than 1.1 million new jobs in Africa, according to China’s Foreign Ministry.
Tuggar’s remarks come at a time when Africa is increasingly looking to diversify its economy beyond natural resource exports, while positioning itself as a key player in the global technological race.
He said that high-impact projects, such as the Zungeru hydroelectric power plant and the Lagos-Ibadan rail project, had been made possible by Chinese support and investment.
The minister also emphasised Nigeria’s ongoing negotiations with China to expand its zero-tariff access currently covering Least Developed Countries (LDCs) with diplomatic ties with China.
He urged that Nigeria be included in the broader zero-tariff framework for African countries to boost its export of key goods, including agricultural produce and minerals.
“We want to see more domestication of the refining process and also domestication of value addition on the supply and value chain,” he said.
Implementing zero-tariff treatment for 100 per cent tariff lines is one of the 10 partnership actions for China and Africa to jointly advance modernisation.
China has continued to express readiness to support Africa to accelerate its industrialisation and agricultural modernisation.
Tuggar raised concerns about the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence and satellite technologies, saying that Nigeria and the entire Africa should be included in the transformative sectors.
He noted that the global landscape was rapidly changing, saying that it would be essential to not only engage but also to have benefits.
Earlier, in his keynote address, Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, noted 130.32 billion yuan surge in financial support across Africa in the last nine months, and 139.95 billion yuan in insurance coverage for China-Africa cooperation.
According to him, this is in addition to the expansion of trade opportunities for the continent’s LDCs.
He said that China was willing to collaborate with Africa to build a more stable and prosperous future.
After the ministerial meeting will be the Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, from June 12 to June 15, with the theme, “China and Africa: Together toward Modernisation”.
The expo will attract participants from over 50 African countries including Nigeria, and will focus on agriculture, infrastructure development and industrial chain collaboration, among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
The North South Power Foundation (NSPF) has donated essential food items worth millions of Naira to victims of the recent flood disaster in Mokwa, Niger state
Mr Hassan Abdullahi, Consultant on Corporate Social Responsibility for the foundation, disclosed this while handling the items to Niger government in Minna on Wednesday.
He extended the organisation’s deepest condolences to the people of Mokwa community, following the devastating flood that resulted in loss of lives and destruction of properties.
Abdullahi noted that the donation aimed to alleviate the suffering of displaced families.
“We extend our deepest condolences to you and the people of Mokwa community; may the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace,” he said.
He listed the items to include; 50 bags of 25kg rice, 50 bags of 25kg beans, 50 bags of 10kg semovita and 50 cartons of spaghetti.
Others are 50 bags of salt, 50 cartons of Maggi, 50 gallons of 5kg Kings vegetable oil and 50 gallons of 5kg palm oil.
He revealed that since its inception, the foundation had spent over N1 billion on corporate social responsibility within its host communities in Shiroro and Munya and had also provided support to IDPs.
Alhaji Suleiman Ahmed, Commissioner for Humanitarian and Disaster Management, who received the items on behalf of the state government, appreciated the effort and show of concern of the foundation.
He assured the foundation that the relief items would be delivered to the victims.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Since return to democracy, Nigeria has been confronted with multi-pronged security challenges.
In the North-East, the terrorist group, Boko Haram, has carried out a bloody campaign against western education.
Similarly, in the North-Central, farmers-herders clashes are rampant; in the North-West, bandits are on the rampage; in the South-East, the secessionist group, IPOB, is marauding; the security challenges are overwhelming.
The strain on national resources, human and material, is enormous; thereby, necessitating effective and urgent measures to stop the menace.
According to budget implementation report, the Federal Government disbursed a total of N1.03tn to boost the fight against insecurity and terrorism between January 2024 and June 2024.
For nearly two decades now, one state that has heavily borne the brunt of the problem is Borno; the birth place and operational base of Boko Haram.
Social and economic lives have been disrupted, making it imperative for practical steps to be taken to restore law and order in the region.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, assures that the military is equal to the task.
Oluyede, however, recognises the importance of good welfare package and motivation if the dream would be realised.
“The strength of the Nigerian Army does not solely lie in the weapons we place on the battlefield, but more in the will of our soldiers who wield them.’’
He spoke in Maiduguri during the COAS bi-annual conference while meeting with top-ranking army officers spearheading the onslaught against the insurgents.
“Accordingly, it behoves on everyone seated here to show exemplary leadership, to mentor and guide the next generation on the right path.
“We will play our role and there will come a time where it will be their turn to take the reins of leadership at every level.
“Hence, our action today will resonate in the future and our achievements will from the foundations of their beginning,” he said.
Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno aligns with Oluyede.
Recently, Zulum announced a donation of N300 million to support the families of soldiers who lost their lives in the ongoing battle against Boko Haram insurgents.
The governor made the announcement after attending the 2025 anti-terrorism military operation, Operation Desert Sanity II medal parade held in Njemena, Chad Republic.
Security analysts believe that improving motivation could help in stabilising the professional conduct of serving personnel on the battlefield, wounded soldiers and of course the families of those killed on active service.
Worthy of mention, Zulum has been consist in financially supporting the families of the military personnel killed on active service and the teeming soldiers who were wounded too while fighting the Boko Haram insurgents in the state, as witnessed in the last one year more than ever before.
Observers say the governor’s legacies, especially in the provisions of operational logistics to military services, other security agencies and stakeholders in the state, remain unforgettable to many.
Zulum had on June 7 gifted a N100 million support to 88 wounded soldiers and families of fallen heroes in the state.
The gift was handed over to the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj-Gen Abdulsalam Abubakar in Maiduguri.
Of the hundred million, Zulum said each wounded soldier would receive N500,000, while N56 million would be distributed to the families of fallen heroes as a token.
About one N100 million naira was also gifted to the wounded soldiers and the families of the fallen heroes in December 2024 by the governor in Maiduguri.
Explaining how the narrative has suddenly changed in the ongoing resurgence operations, Abubakar, who was deeply engaged, said more than 100 terrorists, including 12 Boko Haram Commanders, had been neutralised within a week operation in Marte, Izge and Bitta communities of Borno.
Of course, the success was in connection with the use and application of COAS motivational techniques and the shower of Zulum’s incentives to the command’s wounded soldiers and the families of the deceased soldiers.
Zulum’s usual humility made him believe that his generosity alone could not heal the pains in the hearts of the wounded soldiers and the families of those killed in the battlefield.
To prove that, the governor further expressed his administration’s gratitude to the fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives to protect lives, property and the territorial integrity of the country.
Mr Dauda Iliya, Zulum’s spokesperson, said since the beginning of the security and post conflict recovery in the last one year, the governor had procured 110 vehicles and distributed some to Military, Police, NSCDC and CJTF for surveillance in urban and resettled communities.
Iliya said that the governor had also procured 500 motorcycles to enhance military security patrol in rural communities of Borno.
According to him, the state government has also procured assorted security gadgets, equipment and other logistics for security outfits.
“The governor graciously approved the recruitment of 1,250 Civilian JTF to strengthen local security and compliment the effort security agents prosecuting the counter insurgency incentives,” the spokesperson said.
Stakeholders say that the Zulum and Oluyede’s approach to ensure higher level of motivation and mentoring is yielding results than many think as witnessed previously in the overwhelming victory over the insurgents in the ongoing resurgence operations.
Worthy of recall, Oluyede had on May 23 ordered Commanding officers and soldiers to crush and clear terrorists without showing any mercy out of the Nigeria’s territory.
“Ladies and gentlemen, there is no contesting our decision to completely neutralise these detractors to peace.
“Thus, I charge each and every officer and soldier to spare no quarter in running these terrorists and criminals to the ground,” COAS said.
He insisted that every strategic decision made at that conference must be adopted to achieve its set objectives.
In addition to that, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, also expressed happiness on how intelligence surveillance in Sambisa Forest and Lake Chad region has been intensified with the procurement of Super Tucano aircraft.
The air chief happily announced further that the new aerial platforms had enabled night operations to target terrorists’ hideouts in the forest effectively.
Security experts say major actors in governmental affairs and other stakeholders have lessons to learn from Zulum’s approach.
“Zulum’s consistency in being transparent and generous with resources at his disposal in boosting the morale of troops as well as reaching out to wounded soldiers and the families of fallen heroes needs to be emulated,’’ a security expert said.
All in all, stakeholders say that Zulum’s approach could raise the spirits of serving personnel and motivate them to put in their best while facing the enemy of the state. (NANFeatures)
***If used please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.
Carved out of Benue and Kwara States in 1991, Kogi is one of the youngest states of the federation.
As the case with the creation of other states, which dates back to the pre-civil war era, the creation of Kogi was meant to accelerate the development of the area.
In spite of its strategic location and the confluence region, Kogi remains one of the underdeveloped parts of the nation.
From its first Military Administrator, Danladi Zakari, to the immediate past Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, Kogi has always yearned for accelerated development in order to catch up with the rest of the country.
The return to democratic governance offered many states the opportunity to advance their developmental strides.
Unlike the military era under which the state was created, civilian administrations created an opportunity for the states to be led by indigenes who understand the developmental needs of their people; Kogi is not an exception.
On Nov. 11, 2023, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo succeeded Bello as the governor of Kogi.
Ododo, who contested on the platform of All Progressives Congress, defeated Alhaji Murtala Yakubu-Ajaka of Social Democratic Party.
Ododo inaugurates 105 cars donated to security agencies in the LGAs of the state
As Nigerians celebrate a watershed in their political history, the question remains: To what extent has democracy met the yearnings of the people of Kogi?
Analysts also ask: What are the failings of previously elected governments, and to what extent is the incumbent correcting those lapses in governance? Has Ododo truly fit the shoes left behind by his political benefactor, Bello?
Mr Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, says Ododo emerged at the helm of Kogi affairs at the right on time.
“Ododo’s emergence is timely and instrumental in driving key progress across the state; he came at the right time to consolidate on the achievements of the immediate past administration.
“The ongoing infrastructure across the three senatorial districts and the administration’s fairness, transparency are all inclusive.
“His administration’s commitment to accountability seemingly blocked financial leakages, allowing public funds to be directed toward meaningful projects.
“His government has zero tolerance for corruption; state resources are now being directed towards projects that truly benefit the people.
“These include road construction, rehabilitation of schools, and improvements in healthcare as evidence of the government’s development agenda.
“These were obviously a renewed focus on human capital, education, and health,” he said.
The Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, Ashiwaju Idris, echoes the same view.
He explained that the N98.8 billion debts so far paid off.
The bill included loans that dated as far back as the regime of the Alhaji Ibrahim Idris and N50 billion bailout fund granted the administration of Captain Idris Wada.
As Nigerians celebrate return to democracy, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, says Kogi indigenes have every reason to celebrate with remarkable progress in healthcare, education and other key sectors.
Fanwo said some notable achievements of the governor included Health Insurance Scheme, Primary Healthcare Development, free medical services, disease prevention, and health promotion.
He said one major step towards driving economic growth initiated by the Kogi Government was the recent securing of a landmark partnership with Hunan Province, China.
According to him, the ultimate goal is to make Kogi the preferred investment destination in Nigeria.
“The partnership aims at enhancing development across key sectors, including agriculture, mining, and industrialisation.
“The collaboration, according to him, was formalised during a high-level visit by Gov. Ahmed Ododo to China.
“This is masterstroke that will change the investment narrative of Kogi.
“The partnership with Hunan will boost the state’s agricultural and solid mineral sectors while attracting foreign investments and advancing collaboration towards the realisation of the Ajaokuta Industrial Park.”
On health, the commissioner said that more than 220,000 Kogi residents were now benefiting from the state’s Health Insurance Scheme, making healthcare more accessible and affordable.
He disclosed that the state government had invested over N7 billion in revitalising 88 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the 21 Local Government Areas, aiming to elevate over 200 primary healthcare institutions to functional level-2 health facilities.
“Kogi’s healthcare sector is undergoing significant transformation.
“Ododo’s administration is remodelling over 200 PHCs across the state with most of the funding from state resources.
“These centres are strategically located to reach every community and ward, equipped with solar-powered water systems and staff quarters,” Fanwo said.
According to Fanwo, the BelloCare initiative supports pregnant women, children under five, and the poorest of the poor.
He stressed that Ododo’s commitment to healthcare had brought renewed hope to the residents of Kogi.
As the state right in the middle of the country, Kogi has had its fair share of security challenges faced by many parts of the country.
Some of the worst hit areas are: Yagba West, Yagba East Local Government Areas in the Kogi West Senatorial District and in Ofu and Dekina LGAs in the Kogi East Senatorial District of the state.
In response, the Ododo administration says it has done a lot to protect the lives and property of the citizens.
Retired Commodore Jerry Omodara, Security Adviser to Ododo, said the strategies adopted by the government were working.
According to him, the state currently adjudged as the most peaceful in the North-Central.
Omodara pointed out that banditry was orchestrated by armed elements, consisting of natives and foreign elements that infiltrated the state from parts of the country using cattle routes that passed through the state.
“This group involves in highway banditry, rural banditry, kidnapping for ransom and cattle rustling.
“Kogi is home to diverse ethnic groups, and various disagreements among the groups often resulted in violent conflicts, especially over land, fish ponds and political power; the ethnic rivalry sometimes escalates into violent clashes that disrupt peace and stability.
“This has been well managed as there is no existing serious communal conflict in the state; the government made proactive measures through stakeholders, particularly traditional rulers in all communal cases.
“The recent incursion of bandits is cause by operations in the far North, pushing many of the fleeing bandits to the north central; but the Kogi Government, under the leadership of Ododo, has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards criminality.
“The government has intensified security operations, engaged local hunters/ vigilantes, and collaborated with federal security agencies to dismantle these criminal networks.’’
Omodara added that in February 2024, Ododo established the Special Operations/Metropolitan Quick Response Squad (QRS) for the state capital, Lokoja
He equally said that the government procured over 50 brand new security vehicles for security agencies in the state and distributed another 105 branded Sienna & Sharon vehicles to the 21 LGA Vigilantes for easy patrols and monitoring.
“Again, 550 motorcycles, 2,500 bullet proof vests, 2,500 Non-Ballistic Helmets, Walkie-Talkie and 500 torchlights have been purchased and distributed to security agencies and hunter groups, to enhance policing efforts of the state in May 2024.
“In October 2024, the Federal Government’s approved Forward Operating Base, Abejukolo, and the Patrol Base in Bagana, both in Omala Local Government Area, received heavy deployment of troops to give “vista of hope” to the people of Kogi East in particular, and the state as a whole,” he said.
The 105 cars donated to security agencies in the LGAs of the state
He said that state government was also exploring alternatives to avert the breach of peace and security with the establishment of a strong intelligence outlets in the 239 wards of the state.
Omodara said Ododo had also directed and gazetted the employment of 2,752 personnel of Kogi Vigilante Service into the Kogi Civil Service Commission and recruitment of 1,050 hunters across the 21 LGAs with strong logistic support.
“We also have cooperation with neighbouring states in joint operations, engagement of youths in meaningful self-development and empowerment to reduce crime in the state.
“This, has led to several bandits being eliminated in several clearance operations, while the security agencies have continued to arrest criminal elements in the state, ” Omodara said.
Another area Kogi has made tremendous investment is in the education where Ododo recently ordered the release of N661 million to cover West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees for 18,734 students in public secondary schools across Kogi State on Oct. 29, 2024.
Mr Wemi Jones, the state Commissioner for Education, disclosed that the governor also approved the release of N145, 476,984 for the payment of Common Entrance and First School Leaving Certificate of 25,100 pupils in public primary schools.
“On February 4, Ododo also approved the sum of N215,220,000 for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for 30,000 students and an additional N181.7m for Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms for 18,334 students in public schools, ” Jones said.
Ododo’s supporters say his administration has also done creditably in the area of infrastructure.
They point at the recent visit by President Bola Tinubu to the state, during which he inaugurated several projects to buttress their position.
Tinubu, who was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, inaugurated several projects executed by Ododo to mark his one year in office.
Some of the projects inaugurated on Jan. 28 were 9 km Zone 8-Zango Daji-Kaduna Junction Road and the 5.5 km Zone 8-Crusher Road.
Other projects are 350-bed hostels for both males and females at Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), a demonstration farm, two new faculties at CUSTECH, and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) spread across the state.
Only recently, on June 2, the state governor inaugurated the construction of 7.2 Idah township roads.
Nonetheless, some critics say the governor has not done enough to deserve the accolades he is getting.
Some Kogi frontline opposition members want Ododo to be in control and more prudent with public funds by curbing the excessive powers of the those in charge of the state’s finances.
A human rights advocate, Mr Usman Okai, said it was unacceptable that an individual wields so much influence over public funds.
“Ododo must act swiftly to restore confidence in the state’s financial system.”
He also wants the government to urgently address the deteriorating state of education and the dwindling civil service workforce in the state.
Okai decried what he described as the neglect of primary and secondary schools across Kogi, describing them as dead and in desperately need of intervention.
“Some people have been working for over six years without receiving salaries.
“I challenge the state government to disclose the total number of workers and the wage bill for both state and local government employees to counter my claims,” he said.
Similarly, the Executive Director, Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Dr Patrick Adebola, wants the Ododo administration to focus more on agriculture since it is the main occupation of Kogi people.
More so, observers say the administration should also look at the solid minerals sub sector as a veritable means of industrialising the state.
While much still needs to be done, stakeholders say Ododo has creditably acquitted himself so far.(NANFeatures)
***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has lauded the achievements of President Bola Tinubu, saying his impactful projects and reforms have rendered political opposition efforts ineffective in his 2027 re-election bid.
Wike made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja, during the inauguration of Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) and other roads in the Katampe District.
He noted that the impressive pace of development under Tinubu’s leadership had disoriented critics and opposition groups, particularly the supposed coalition created to challenge Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
“I thought there would be a coalition, but when people see new projects being unveiled daily, that idea collapses.
“The coalition has failed because of the good work Mr President is doing,” Wike said.
He explained that the N16 to N20 road was awarded in September and commenced in Oct. 2024 and later extended through Gishiri Village to connect it to Wole Soyinka Way.
The further said that Tinubu administration has built contractors’ trust in government, adding that the contractors now have confidence to execute projects knowing they would be paid.
He disclosed that although the extension of the N16 road to N20 was recently approved by the FCT Executive Council, the contractor had already completed it, citing confidence in prompt government payments.
He also noted that communities affected by the road construction were adequately compensated, receiving 200 per cent of the compensation rate in line with Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda”.
“President Tinubu has brought that trust back, and the people of the FCT, particularly those in satellite towns are seeing progress like never before,” Wike said.
He thanked the president for giving him the opportunity to be part of what he described as a “revolution in the FCT,” and vowed that no project initiated under his tenure would be abandoned.
Responding, Tinubu commended Wike and his team for their commitment to transformative infrastructure development, describing the minister as a “team builder and a team player.”
“Infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a necessity; it is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration, and economic opportunity,” the president said.
Also speaking, the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, expressed gratitude to FCT residents for their patience during the construction process.
“To the people of Gishiri, Maitama, and the entire FCT community, thank you for your resilience and belief in the government’s capacity to deliver.
“You are the heart of this city, and this project is a tribute to your enduring hope,” she said.
Earlier, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Mr Richard Dauda, said that described the road as a 3.7-kilometre, six-lane dual carriageway.
He said that the road linked Maitama District in Phase I to Katampe, Jahi, and Mabushi Districts in Phase II. (NAN)
TAJBank, Nigeria’s leading non-interest lender, has signed the completion agreement for the N20 billion second tranche of its N100 billion Mudarabah Sukuk bond programme.
The Founder/Managing Director, of TAJBank, Mr Hamid Joda, made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja
Joda said that the latest investment initiative sealed on Tuesday, was coming after about two years of the issuance of the first-ever N10 billion Sukuk bond on the Nigerian Exchange in 2023,.
According to him, it presents another opportunity for individuals and corporate investors to stake their funds in an ethical instrument with a competitive 20.5 per cent per annum return.
“Specifically, the new Mudarabah Sukuk bond of TAJBank has secured all necessary regulatory approvals.
“It is designed to offer a stable and ethical investment option to investors to participate in the bank’s profit-sharing ventures.
“It also underscores TAJBank’s commitment to expanding access to innovative financial solutions and promoting financial inclusion in the country,” he said.
According to him, the new Mudarabah Sukuk bond is open to all investors, both individuals and corporates.
He said that the goal was to provide a reliable source of extra income, accessible from the comfort of the subscribers’ homes.
The Chairman of TAJBank, Alhaji Tanko Gwamna, said that the offer would avail members of the public an investment opportunity that aligned with ethical financial principles.
“The offer of the new N20 billion Sukuk bond on the NGX will enable a wider range of investors to participate in our growth and benefit from our profit-sharing model,” the chairman said.
He further advised interested investors to contact their financial advisors or visit www.tajbank.com for more information on the Sukuk and the listing processes.
The Chief Executive Officer of the lead issuing house, AVA Capital Ltd, Mr Kayode Fadahunsi, said that the company was excited to be part of TAJBank’s success story in the non-interest banking industry.
“I want to assure investors that as was the case in the bank’s maiden Sukuk bond listing on the Exchange, the bank’s management will surpass expectations in this second outing,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the bank’s maiden N10 billion Sukuk bond on the NGX in February 2023 was over-subscribed by 115 per cent.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
The Kalthum Foundation for Peace (KFP) and partners, have evolved strategies to foster enhanced youth involvement in counter-insurgency and counter violent extremism efforts in the North East.
The foundation is leading conversations in collaboration with Network of Civil Society Organisations Borno (NECSOB) and Borno Youth Parliament (BYP).
This is contained in a statement by the Founder/CEO of KFP, Amb. Ummu-Kalthum Rabiu, Executive Director, NECSOB, Bulama Abiso and Speaker of BYP, Abubakar Usman, on Wednesday in Abuja.
They said the conversation was designed to address the pressing issues surrounding violent extremism, promote effective conflict resolution strategies, and foster a culture of peace within their communities.
According to the statement, the one-day gathering would be dedicated to engaging a diverse array of stakeholders, with a particular focus on students and young individuals.
“This critical event is scheduled to take place on June 28 at the University of Maiduguri to provide an inspiring setting for open dialogue and collaboration among participants,” they said.
The group said the gathering of political, traditional and military leaders at the event would further emphasise their collective efforts to combat the challenges posed by violent extremism.
They added that the participation would enrich the discussions and provide a comprehensive perspective on those critical issues.
According to them, the one-day summit is set to attract over 1,000 students from Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States.
“The event aims to enhance the efforts of these students in the areas of community engagement and peacebuilding, particularly through the framework of the COIN (Counter-Insurgency) strategy.
“This gathering presents an opportunity for participants to discuss and develop collaborative approaches to address regional challenges, fostering a spirit of cooperation and understanding among the youth.
“The anticipated attendance underscores the importance of youth involvement in peace initiatives and highlights the potential for constructive dialogue in promoting stability in the region.
“This event promises to be a pivotal moment for youth engagement and collaborative action toward building a safer, more peaceful future for all,” they added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has inaugurated the International Day of Dialogue Among Civilisations to foster global understanding and cooperation through mutual learning among developing countries.
Mr Zhang Yi, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, disclosed this in Abuja while highlighting the role of communication and mutual respect in building a harmonious world.
According to him, a resolution proposed by China was adopted at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, designating June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue Among Civilisations.
This resolution emphasises that all achievements of civilisations are part of humanity’s shared heritage, and advocating respect for diverse civilisations.
It also highlights the significance of dialogue in fostering peace, development, well-being, and collective progress.
Zhang added that establishing this day reflects China’s commitment to the Global Civilisation Initiative introduced by President Xi Jinping.
He said that it also marks a significant contribution to global dialogue, peace, and development.
“As we face escalating global challenges and deficits in peace, development, security, and governance, this new International Day aligns with current international trends and addresses contemporary needs.
“This year also commemorates the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations.
“During this significant moment in history, the necessity for mutual dialogue among civilisations to enhance understanding and trust, promote people-to-people connections,
“It also encourages unity and cooperation, and achieving common development is increasingly crucial,” he said.
He said that the theme for this year’s event, “Dialogue & Zhi yin: Beyond Borders, Connecting Hearts: Dialogue with the World through Music,” emphasises music’s power as a universal language.
“In traditional Chinese culture, “Zhī yǐn” symbolises deep mutual understanding and true friendship, which can only be attained through sincere dialogue,” he said.
Zhang reiterated China’s willingness to partner with Nigeria to seize this opportunity for enhancing cooperation across culture, tourism, education, and the creative economy.
He emphasised the need for collaboration to build a high-level China-Nigeria community with a shared future.
Dr Mukhtar Yawale, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, noted that this inaugural event was a beacon of hope.
Yawale said that it reminded peoples that culture serves as the compass guiding a world yearning for connection.
“This dialogue transcends cultural boundaries, acting as the engine of our creative economy.
“The achievements we’ve made together such as the Abuja Light Rail project, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, and the increasing popularity of Nollywood films in China illustrate that these ventures are not just transactions but transformations.”
Yawale also said that Nigerian digital artists are collaborating with Shenzhen tech hubs, while fashion designers blend traditional Ankara styles with Shanghai’s innovative trends.
“This is the future we envision; a creative economy where dialogue transforms into tangible opportunities. When civilisations converse, they do not merely exchange ideas; they co-create their destinies,” he said.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening this covenant between civilisations.
“We are set to launch the ‘Nigeria-China Creative Corridor’, a platform for joint ventures in film, music, AI-driven art, and heritage preservation.
“Through scholarships, artist residencies, and co-production agreements, we aim to ensure that dialogue breeds enterprise, and enterprise elevates nations,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event attracted diplomats from Cuba, Argentina, Lebanon, Iraq and cultural ambassadors, and local leaders.
The highlight of the event were music and dance performances by Nigerian and Chinese artists.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)
The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) has announced that the Nigeria Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Summit 2025 will take place from June 17 to 18, in Abuja.
Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, Director-General of ICRC, disclosed this in a statement issued by Ifeanyi Nwoko, Acting Head of Media and Publicity, ICRC, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Ewalefoh said the summit would convene top government officials, global investors, and key private sector leaders for high-level discussions on transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure through PPPs.
The summit’s theme is “Unlocking Nigeria’s Potential: The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He said the two-day event aimed to redefine how Nigeria mobilised private capital and expertise to address its vast infrastructure needs.
Ewalefoh emphasised the summit’s focus on practical outcomes, saying it was not just about speeches but about dismantling bottlenecks and unlocking capital to create visible impact.
He said the impact would be seen across various sectors, including power lines, railways, hospitals, broadband, transportation, agriculture, education, and tourism.
“We believe PPPs are the bridge between vision and reality,” he said.
He added that under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, the Renewed Hope Agenda was a national mission, with Nigeria actively building, financing, and delivering change in real time.
“The summit will highlight Nigeria’s investment potential in infrastructure through a streamlined PPP process designed to attract real value and shift from policy discussions to tangible projects.
“The opening ceremony will be held at the State House Banquet Hall, featuring a keynote address by President Tinubu and a special address by Dr Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank.
“Goodwill messages will also be delivered by the Vice-President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Regional Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and other distinguished guests.
“Day two will include panel sessions and technical discussions at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton, focusing on major infrastructure corridors in transport, energy, housing, and technology.
“The summit will showcase successful Nigerian PPP projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
“It will also feature international case studies like the Wind Power Project in Cape Verde and the Sene-Gambia Bridge in Senegal, offering replicable models for Nigeria’s infrastructure expansion.”
Ewalefoh noted that government officials and private investors would collaborate in real-time to co-create solutions, moving beyond traditional talk-shop formats.
“The sessions will feature global investment players from Afreximbank, Africa50, PAC Capital, Norrenberger, Financial Derivatives, AFC, and KPMG, providing exclusive networking and opportunities to close viable transactions.
“This is a bold step in actualising the Renewed Hope Agenda and establishing PPPs as the foundation of national progress,” Ewalefoh said.(NAN)(www.nannewsng)
At 39, Bassey Anyim has lived a life marked by hardship. He was forced to abandon his education after elementary school due to his father’s inability to fund his schooling.
Now a married man with children, Anyim struggles to make ends meet in a country where formal employment is scarce—even for graduates.
“The school hungry me, but no means. My father married three wives, so he couldn’t train us,” Anyim said in Pidgin English.
Staff and apprentices at Albert .O World Communications
In 2024, Nigeria’s unemployment rate experienced fluctuations across the first two quarters, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
In a nation where the unemployment rate stood at 4.3 per cent in Q2 2024—and youth unemployment at 6.5 per cent according to the NBS, the odds were obviously stacked against him.
However, Anyim found a lifeline in an unexpected place: a small phone repair shop in Benin, the capital city of Edo.
The shop, Albert O. Communication World, is owned by Albert Oshozele, a seasoned technician, who has been in the business since 2005.
After a brief stint in the boutique business—including trips to Togo and Cotonou—Oshozele returned to phone repairs, restarting his trade with just N7,000.
Today, he owns properties in choice locations in Benin, and supports a family of five and community efforts, all built from his dedication to his craft.
But Oshozele’s success is not defined solely by material achievements. Over the years, he has trained more than 70 apprentices, many of whom now run their own businesses.
Albert O. Communication World is set apart by its unique approach to apprenticeship.
Unlike traditional masters who burden trainees with errands and offer little mentorship, Oshozele actively supports his apprentices.
He provides daily stipends, transport fares, and emotional encouragement, believing, as he puts it in the local slang, “You nor fit learn any work with empty belle.”
His generosity has kept many from dropping out due to financial pressure.
“My master used to give me N300 after closing. I saved it and opened my first account with N25,000,” he recalled.
That support continues today, with Oshozele offering extra assistance to married apprentices like Anyim.
“Sometimes, if we lock up by 6 pm or 7 p.m., he gives us transport money. But because I’m a married man, he gives me more to take care of my children,” Anyim said.
Godwin Asaka, another apprentice, sees the business as a gateway to independence. A secondary school leaver, he joined the outlet in March 2024 and is hopeful.
“There’s money in GSM repair,” he says. “Once you focus and learn it well, feeding your family won’t be a problem.
“I’m catching up fast. My hope is strong. Once I open my shop, food and money won’t be problems, ” he enthused with confidence.
In Nigeria’s tough economic climate, with youth unemployment on the rise, Oshozele’s model offers a scalable, grassroots solution—where mentorship, compassion, and practical skill-building intersect.
For 14-year-old Ibrahim Ajayi, it’s about balance. While attending secondary school, he learns phone repairs with hopes of supporting his parents after graduation.
Efe Edosonmwan, 25, a graduate of Electrical Electronics Engineering from Auchi Polytechnic, now owns his own open shop, and is currently awaiting his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) call-up.
“I started my apprenticeship with Uncle Albert during my National Diploma (ND) holidays. He’s my dad’s neighbour,” Efe recalled.
“I would spend time with other apprentices in his workshop. We would gather around him and the senior apprentices, watching closely as they repair faulty mobile phones.
“I learnt quickly because there was a high volume of work, and I was determined to gain the skills and start earning my own money.
“I began by handling minor repairs like fixing mouthpiece issues and replacing damaged battery compartment.
“Gradually, I expanded my skills and started repairing friends’ and family members’ Android phones—handling more complex issues like calibrator replacement and other technical faults.”
Edosonmwan said he juggled his studies with his apprenticeship throughout schooling.
“As far back as my ND2 days, I could earn between N2,000 and N5,000 daily from side repairs.
“Later, when I partnered with a friend to rent a space at Ibiwe Street, our earnings increased. We now each make between N5,000 and N20,000 daily.
“However, we constantly face harassment from government officials who show up to demand taxes indiscriminately, almost on a daily basis.
“Another challenge is the high cost of renting a secure and presentable workspace.
“Some customers are hesitant to patronise us because they’re afraid we might disappear with their phones, especially with the constant clampdowns by both local and state government agents,” he lamented.
Entrepreneur James Emmanuel, based in Benin, sees Oshozele’s model as aligning with national efforts to promote skill acquisition.
He referenced the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), established in 1971 to support such programmes.
He noted that in January 2024, President Bola Tinubu set a target to upskill 5 million artisans annually, an effort mirrored in Oshozele’s hands-on, supportive training model.
“Oshozele’s model addresses the gap by combining technical knowledge with financial support, allowing apprentices to learn without distraction,” Emmanuel said.
Indeed, Oshozele’s impact goes beyond the shop. By offering purpose and direction, especially to young men at risk of idleness or crime, he plays a quiet but critical role in community development and crime prevention.
“In Nigeria, even with a Master’s degree, if you don’t have something doing, you are still like nobody. Learning a skill is better. No knowledge is wasted,” Oshozele said.
Yet challenges remain, from dissatisfied customers to economic instability, but these did not deter him from his goal.
“The government is not my business. My goal is to get daily bread, and help others get theirs,” he said.
As Nigeria confronts growing unemployment and poverty, stories like Oshozele’s shine as beacons of hope.
His bustling workshop, alive with laughter, learning, and purpose, is a reminder that lasting change doesn’t always begin with policy. Sometimes, it starts with people.
For men like Anyim, Asaka, Edosonmwan, and young Ajayi, holding a screwdriver in Albert’s shop is the first step toward building not just a career, but a life of dignity and purpose.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
**This Solutions Journalism report is produced with the support of the Nigerian Health Watch.
***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.
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