NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t
Foreign

Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t

240 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Botswana has lauded  China for its commitment to Africa’s development.

 

Keorapetse said this on Friday at the opening of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations in Dunhuang, China.

 

The event is being hosted by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s government of Gansu Province in China.

 

The speaker, representing delegates from Africa highlighted China’s role as a key partner in Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

 

He cited infrastructural projects, technology transfer, and educational exchanges as pillars of cooperation between China and Africa.

 

“China’s support has been instrumental in advancing Africa’s development agenda.

 

“From railways to digital innovation, our partnership exemplifies mutual respect and shared progress under the principles of the Global Civilisation Initiative,” he said.

 

Keorapetse praised President Xi Jinping’s three global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative.

 

According to the Botswana speaker, the initiatives remain crucial even as they serve as resources for generating new opportunities for the Global South.

 

He highlighted China’s role in Botswana’s developmental efforts since it’s  independence in 1966.

 

Keorapetse also highlighted China’s instrumental role in enhancing the his country’s infrastructural development and other benefits through the nations’ bilateral cooperation.

 

“When Botswana gained independence, we had fewer than 10 kilometers of tarred roads. China aided in rehabilitating our railway system, transforming 522 kilometers of track with a $99 million interest-free loan.

 

“Beyond infrastructure advancements, there is a flourishing cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations, including the establishment of the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana in collaboration with Shanghai Normal University.

 

“These institutes play a pivotal role in promoting the Chinese language and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges,” he said.

 

Keorapetse, however, acknowledged the challenges facing multilateralism, including armed conflicts, global health crises, climate change, and the rise of nationalism, which have hindered international cooperation.

 

“It is for this reason that we look to China to partnering with us in the Global South to mitigate the adverse effects of these global challenges.

 

“We also reiterate our commitment to continuous collaboration with China,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Shuaib Sadiq/Bashir Rabe Mani

China pledges deeper ties with Africa
Foreign

China pledges deeper ties with Africa

225 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Chinese Counselor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Shen Sha, has reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the longstanding ties between Africa and China.

 

Shen gave the assurance at the ongoing African Think Tank and Media Workshop organised by the International Department of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee in Beijing.

 

According to him, the historical connection between China and Africa spans more than eight decades.

 

”China’s engagement with Africa dates back to the eight century when Chinese explorers embarked on historic voyages to the continent, laying the groundwork for enduring cultural and trade relationships.”

 

Shen noted that China values unity and collaboration with African nations as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

 

He added that the country remained steadfast in its support for Africa’s development aspirations.

 

”We embrace the principles of a strong and harmonious East Africa and are dedicated to aligning Chinese interests with those of the African people.

 

”China’s growth and the international stature may evolve, but our commitment to fostering partnerships with Africa remains resolute,” he said.

 

The counselor also said that China stands ready to champion African countries’ rights on the global stage, advocating for fair and inclusive international policies that safeguard the interests of developing nations.

 

He further pledged China continued backing for Africa’s self-reliant initiatives, supporting peace-building efforts, and facilitating inclusive governance practices tailored to African contexts.

 

”We envision a future where China and Africa advance hand in hand, sharing developmental opportunities and mutual prosperity.

 

”China’s enduring support for Africa’s advancement is unwavering, and we stand ready to provide assistance within our means,” he said.

 

Shen also highlighted the exponential growth in trade and investment between China and Africa, underscoring China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year.

 

”Notably, Chinese investments have spurred economic growth and jobs creation across Africa, underlining President Xi Jinping’s personal commitment to nurturing China-Africa relations.

 

”China’s promise of continued engagement extends to expanding investment cooperation, enhancing agricultural and manufacturing partnerships, and empowering African nations to harness their resources for sustainable development,” he said.

 

Ms Lindiwe Zulu, Head of the African delegation and member of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC), expressed appreciation to China for its steadfast support of Africa’s progress.

 

Zulu emphasised the importance of equitable partnerships and African unity as the keys to prosperity.

 

She expressed optimism that China would uphold Africa as an equal and esteemed partner, paving the way for shared success and enduring friendship.

 

NAN reports that the delegation comprises 20 Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries including Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Cecilia Odey/Deborah Coker

Chinese VP advocates respect across civilisations to promote dialogue
Foreign

Chinese VP advocates respect across civilisations to promote dialogue

247 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Vice-President of the People’s Republic of China, Han Zheng, has called for greater understanding and respect among different cultures and civilisations worldwide to foster peaceful relations.

 

The vice-president stated this on Friday during the opening ceremony of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilisations.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day event is themed: ‘Carrying Forward the Spirit of the Silk Road and Gathering Momentum for the Implementation of the Global Civilisation Initiative’.

 

The event was hosted by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s Government of Gansu Province.

 

He emphasised the significance of respect among civilisations as the cornerstone for constructing a harmonious and collaborative world.

 

Zheng said, “It is solely through sincere dialogue, mutual education, and respect that humanity can effectively tackle the challenges of today, ranging from climate adjustments to worldwide health dilemmas.”

 

He highlighted the need to move beyond differences and promote a spirit of inclusiveness, emphasising that each civilisation has unique contributions to offer.

 

The Chinese VP implored nations to approach each other with receptivity and to search for common ground in the pursuit of shared prosperity.

 

Zheng lauded Dunhuang as a haven for diverse religions and cultures, a central point along the historic Silk Road.

 

He observed that the enduring principles of peace, collaboration, and reciprocal advantage depicted by the Silk Road served as a framework for intercultural interactions between the Eastern and Western worlds.

 

“To advance the spirit of these principles and implement the Global Civilisation Initiative, this dialogue is of great practical importance,” Zheng

 

He referenced President Xi Jinping’s vision from March 2023, which advocated respect for the diversity of world civilisations and the promotion of shared human values.

 

Additionally, Zheng introduced four fundamental notions to advance civilisational dialogue.

 

Firstly, he emphasised the need for mutual respect and recognition, asserting that each civilisation was unique and valuable.

 

Zheng encouraged inclusive communication to foster collaboration among various cultures.

 

Secondly, he discussed the importance of acknowledging both the commonalities and differences among civilisations, advocating for a united approach to tackle global challenges.

 

By emphasising shared human values, he called for collective efforts to overcome barriers and enrich civilisational exchanges.

 

He also stressed the importance of innovation and continuity in cultural development, stating that the evolution of civilisations relied on learning from history while embracing new ideas.

 

“The innovative transformation of traditional cultures is essential in our modernising world,” Zheng remarked.

 

Lastly, he called for genuine dialogue and cooperative engagement as crucial for enhancing mutual understanding and friendship among nations.

 

Zheng reiterated China’s commitment to promoting civilisational dialogue, mentioning the establishment of an international day dedicated to such discussions, which had earned global support.

 

NAN also reports that about 400 people, including political leaders, experts and scholars from multiple countries, heads of international and non-governmental organisations, as well as Chinese Government representatives, attended the ceremony.

 

Other international guests also delivered speeches at the event, highlighting that the three major global initiatives.

 

They included the Global Civilisation Initiative, proposed by Chinese Jinping, contribute to greater mutual understanding and exchanges among different civilisations.

 

The highlight of the event was the showcasing of cultural dances and exhibits to show the historical significance of Dunhuang. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Call for transformational leadership dominates symposium in honour of NILDS D-G
Politics

Call for transformational leadership dominates symposium in honour of NILDS D-G

240 total views today

By EricJames Ochigbo

Some stakeholders have called for investments in transformational leadership to ensure speedy development in the country.

The stakeholders made the call on Friday in Abuja at a symposium organised by National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) to mark the sixth anniversary of Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman as Director-General.

The News Agency of Nigeria NAN reports that the symposium had as its theme: “Reflecting on the Six Years of Impact: A Symposium in Honour of Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, DG of NILDS.”

In his keynote address, Founder of GOTNI Leadership Centre, Mr Linus Okorie, emphasised the need for transformational leadership in the country.

According to Okorie, transformational leadership is a concept that places premium on people, inspired by a compelling vision, strengthened by upholding sound principles that changes both the leaders and followers, leading to an encompassing outcome.

He described that Nigeria as a nation with abundant resources, vibrant population and an enviable geo-strategic position in Africa.

Okorie said that for national transformation to happen, leadership must go beyond positional authority to purpose-driven impact.

He said that a leadership that prioritised the common good was needed in the public and private sectors across the country.

“Let every leader here today rise beyond convenience into conviction. Let our institutions evolve from compliance-based to values-driven. Let governance become less about power and more about purpose.

“In the end, nations do not change because of the abundance of resources or the eloquence of policies; they change because of the intentionality, integrity and imagination of those who dare to lead differently.

“Sulaiman embodies these qualities. His work at NILDS reminds us that institutions can work, that excellence is possible and that leadership still matters. May his legacy inspire many others across the country,” he said.

The Country Representative, Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), Mr Adebowale Olorunmola, stressed the need for a deep reflection on the decades of leadership crisis in the country.

Olorunmola said that the conversation should not stop until Nigeria got the right leader in every position across the country.

He said that though Nigeria had transformational leaders, the country was still far behind its peers in terms of development.

“We need to invest in building our leaders that are there now, but we must also invest in future leaders, the people, the young people that are coming; that is the problem that we need to deal with,” he said.

Also speaking, President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, said that the National Assembly takes pride in the performance of NILDS, led by Sulaiman.

Represented by a member of the Governing Council of NILDS, Sen. Victor Umeh, Akpabio lauded the leadership qualities of the director-general, describing him as dogged and resilient.

“This institute, he has turned it around so much that anytime you drive into the premises, you know that you are walking into an ambience of a citadel of learning, where people’s minds are developed.

“For us in the legislature, this place is a place where the skills of lawmakers are honed. When you come here, you will understand basic symbols of lawmaking.

“And once you follow the guides and the lectures they give you, you turn out to be a good lawmaker; the purpose of setting up this institute is very well realised under his leadership,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr Samson Itodo, the Executive Director of Yiaga-Africa, a civil society organisation (CSO) tasked the director-general on intellectual solution to indiscriminate defection by political party members.

Itodo said that though the Supreme Court had ruled that votes belonged to the party, those defecting from one party to another were not leaving the office they occupied.

He said that the institute needed to do more to ensure women inclusion in politics, leadership and all other sectors.

The executive director also urged Sulaiman to push for electoral reforms and the passage of a new Electoral Act before the end of the year.

Responding, Sulaiman appreciated the past and present leadership of the National Assembly for his appointment and the time so far spent in office as director-general.

He said that despite attempts to cripple the institute in the last two years by some individuals, the leadership of the assembly had sustained the institute.

Sulaiman urged ed the leadership of the national assembly to get rid of those undermining the institute, for the good of the country.

“The institute has a potential to survive. We have the potential to redirect this country. We have potential to mentor the younger ones. The only thing we need is the willingness of our people to give us maximum support,” he said.

The high point of the symposium was the inauguration of NILDS Journal on Law Review and the cutting of a cake in honour of the director-general.

Notable achievements recorded in the last six years include: establishment of Democracy Radio (104.9) to attain greater grassroots reach in sensitising Nigerians on the principles of democracy.

Others are the establishment of Legislative Centre for Security Analysis to offer increased support for existing efforts to address insecurity and movement of the institute to its permanent site, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/’Wale Sadeeq

British Council partners NUC on development of varsity curriculum
Education

British Council partners NUC on development of varsity curriculum

217 total views today

By Funmiilayo Adeyemi

The British Council has partnered with the National Universities Commission (NUC) on the development of curriculum in tertiary institutions.

Mr Chikodi Onyemerela, Director of Programmes, British Council, at a workshop on Enhancing Curriculum and Pedagogical Approaches in Nigerian Universities, in Abuja on Monday, said the partnership was necessary to be in tune with global trend.

He said that there was need to change from traditional approach of teaching and learning to digital literacy in solving problems.

“NUC has since introduced the CCMAS which emphasised the cultivation of critical thinking, digital literacy, problem solving and enterpreneurial skill among graduates and this is imperative for our educational institutions to adopt accordingly.

“We must acknowledge the hurdles that lies ahead the traditional approach to teaching and learning which has long been entrenched in our university system and are not easily overturn.

“To change this will require a concerted efforts from each of us to challenge the status quo,” he said.

Also, the Acting Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Chris Maiyaki, called for collaborative efforts in initiating continuous curriculum reform in Nigerian universities.

He emphasised the need for continuous curriculum reform in Nigerian universities to enable them adapt in a fast-changing world.

He also said that initiating such reforms usually come with challenges, noting that sometimes the actualisation of the curriculum renewal is not fully realised due to the challenges of implementation.

“Continuous curriculum reform has been considered a necessary measure to assist schools respond to a fast-changing world.

“Initiating such reforms is not without challenges as, sometimes, the actualisation of the curriculum renewal is not fully realised due to the challenges of implementation.

“It is gratifying to note that this workshop is coming on the heels of the implementation of the recently-developed Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) in line with the Commission’s enabling laws.

“The new CCMAS is a product of sustained stakeholder interactions and engagement over the years. This involved a blend of academic experts, government (represented by NUC), professional bodies, and the private sector represented by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group(NESG).

“In order to enrich the draft documents, copies of each discipline were forwarded to all critical stakeholders including the relevant academic units in Nigerian Universities, the private sector, professional bodies and the academies for their comments and input,” he said.

Maiyaki said these inputs, along with the curriculum of programmes obtained from some foreign and renowned universities, served as major working materials for the various panels constituted for that purpose.

“Innovative courses such as Venture Creation, Entrepreneurship (programme Specific) and innovation, among others were incorporated into the general studies courses to enhance the employability skills of graduates,” he said.

Maiyaki added that the new curriculum unbundles the Bachelor of Agriculture, Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication and the Bachelor of Architecture Programmes, while establishing some emerging specialisations in these fields, in line with global practices.

He, however, stated that this was not a one-time process as there would be curriculum development and review to be at pace with current global trends. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Research coy advocates data-driven solutions for grass-root governance
Science & Tech

Research coy advocates data-driven solutions for grass-root governance

191 total views today

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

A research and advisory company, Veriv Africa, is advocating for data-driven solutions to address governance and reforms across the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the country.

Ms Omotayo Faro, Managing Director of the company said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

Faro said that local governance reforms had become necessary following the 2024 Supreme Court judgment that upheld local government autonomy in the country.

She said that the company had begun research on local governance, strengthening initiatives in collaboration with Nigerian Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), starting with Kaduna State.

“Through this NYFF-supported initiative, Veriv Africa aims to equip local governments and civil society with data to strengthen service delivery, empower youth and communities to hold decision-makers accountable.

“This will demonstrate a scalable model for governance reform across the 774 LGAs.

“Improving governance begins at the grassroots and the data-driven solutions will put communities at the centre of development,” she said.

She said that the project focused on five LGAs in9 Kaduna state, which include Chikun, Igabi, Kaduna North, Kaduna South and Zaria.

She said that the project assessed the gaps in governance such as agriculture, healthcare, education, vocational services as well as Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).

“It offers vital, evidence-based insights into the realities of service delivery and development at the local level.

“The insights can help to prepare Kaduna and other Nigerian states for a more accountable, transparent and community-driven future.

“The assessment revealed that the education sector in Kaduna State suffers from chronic underfunding, with more than 90 per cent of respondents reporting inadequate learning materials.

“In the healthcare sector, in spite of the physical presence of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), service delivery is hampered by inadequate infrastructure and staffing.

“More than 59 per cent of respondents reported the absence of doctors or nurses in their local PHCs, raising serious concerns about access to quality care,” she said.

She further said that the assessment showed that the agricultural practices in the state had been constrained by insecurity, poor access to inputs, inadequate extension services and weak market systems.

According to her, farmers continue to face barriers, with many citing government interventions as inaccessible or ineffective.

“In WASH, residents of Kaduna LGAs face widespread water shortages and poor sanitation, while over 93 per cent of respondents experience water scarcity in the previous three months.

“Another challenge is poor toilet facilities, thereby contributing to poor public health outcomes,” Faro said.

She urged policymakers, development partners and civil society actors to collaborate on scalable reforms across LGAs and also get the details of the report on www.verivafrica.com.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Veriv Africa is a research and advisory company dedicated to leveraging data, technology and domain expertise to transform data into actionable intelligence. (NAN)

Edited by Fatima Sule Abdullahi/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Golf and Tour charity visits orphanages in Niger on its 12th edition
Sports

Golf and Tour charity visits orphanages in Niger on its 12th edition

198 total views today

By Rita Iliya

The Golf and Tour Charity Association of Nigeria has commenced its 12th edition in Minna, with a pledge to contribute to orphanages in the state.

 

Wing Commander Dangana Sarki, Chairman of the Minna Local Organising Committee, disclosed this during a press conference in Minna on Thursday.

 

Sarki said the edition, starting from May 29 to May 31, was not only to play golf, but to also give back to the community through charity activities.

 

He disclosed that the association would visit orphanages during the tournament and contribute to their well-being.

 

He said the association comprises of members from various entities including the military, security agencies, public servants, and traditional rulers.

 

“Any state we hold our tournament, we take our time to visit orphanages, the needy to see how we can contribute to their wellbeing.

 

“This initiative is part of the association efforts to impact positively in the society while promoting the game of golf,” he said.

 

He explained that the tournament was expected to boost the local economy with 100 golfers from across the country lodging in hotels while participating in various activities.

 

Retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Onoyiveta, Chief Coordinator of the association, said that the group has completed orphanages, installed solar panels, and carried out medical outreach in states.

 

He said the association aimed to dispel the notion that golf is an elitist game.

 

“There is a perception about the game of golf as an elitist game.

 

“But despite that, for us in our group, we feel that society is very critical, and members of the society are very important, particularly the less privileged ones,” he added.

 

Also, Mr Jerry Gerald, Vice Captain of Minna Golf Club, expressed gratitude for the tournament, describing it as a privilege for the people of Niger state.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Niger CAN felicitates Bago on 2 years anniversary
General News

Niger CAN felicitates Bago on 2 years anniversary

181 total views today

By Rita Iliya

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger has congratulated Gov. Umaru Bago on his two years in office.

 

Rev. Bulus Yohanna, Chairman of CAN in Niger, in a statement in Minna on Thursday, described the governor’s achievements as tremendous, citing his commitment to transforming the state.

 

He noted that the governor had made significant progress in road rehabilitation and reconstruction, education, agriculture, women and youth development and healthcare delivery services.

 

“We thank God for the governor’s life and pray for wisdom, protection, guidance and good health,” he said.

 

Yohanna appealed to the people of the state to rally round the governor to ensure his success and assure him that  Christendom would continue to pray for him.

 

He added that the governor had written his name in ‘gold ‘in the history of Niger since its creation over four decades ago.

 

According to him, we commend you for placing high premium on education, agriculture, women and youth development, healthcare delivery services.

 

“As well as reconstruction and rehabilitation of feeder roads across the 25 local government areas of the state,” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Joe Idika

Anniversary: Niger Govt. unveils achievements in 2 years
General News

Anniversary: Niger Govt. unveils achievements in 2 years

228 total views today

By Rita Iliya
Government of Niger has unveiled its administration achievements with the various commissioners highlighting key achievements in their respective ministries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the commissioners took turns, at a news conference on Thursday in Minna, to unveil their achievements in the last two years.

Dr Bello Tukur, Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Health, said that when the Bago-led administration came on board, the state was facing lack of medical doctors and healthcare workers and the governor immediately approved recruitment of 1,000 healthcare workers.

Tukur said the administration had employed 36 doctors, bringing the total number of doctors to 219.

He said the state government had commenced the remodeling and equipping of the IBB Specialist Hospital, with plan to installed an MRI machine, the first in a government hospital in Northern Nigeria.

He said the governor approved a 100 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for medical staff and aligned the entry point for doctors with the Federal Government practice, at CONMESS 3.

The commissioner added that the state government was working to address infrastructure challenges, including the fencing of General Hospital in Kuta and commencement of general renovation.

Also speaking, Dr Ibrahim Dangana, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, said that before the coming of Bago children in 12 local governments had not been immunised.

Dangana said that as of now children in 11 out of the 12 local government areas had been immunized except those in Mashegu Local Government, which would be accomplished soon.

“We have built an emergency operations center with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation,” he said.

He added that the ministry had rehabilitated 20 primary healthcare centres, with plans to revitalise 40 more with the support from development partners.

Dangana said the governor recently inaugurated 20 level two primary healthcare centres, with a plan to build 100 primary healthcare centres across the state.

Also, Mr Elizabeth Shaba, Commissioner, Ministry for Small Medium Enterprise in Niger, said the ministry through the Micro Medium and Small Enterprise Agency had disbursed over N8 million so far under NG-CARES.

She added that the ministry also trained youths and women in entrepreneurship skills and empowered 200 youths with N100,000 each and provided loans to women under cooperative societies.

Similarly, Mr Musa Bawa, Commissioner for Agriculture, said the ministry provided extension services and mechanisation to Nigerlites and procured over 3,000 machines and equipment for agriculture.

Musa, who was represented by Malam Ali Maikasuwa, the Director of Agricultural Services, said the ministry also distributed fertilizers at 50 per cent subsidy, harvested over five million metric tonnes of grains, and trained farmers on carbon credits.

Also, Commissioner for Homeland Security, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Bello, said the administration of Bago had prioritised security because security was the primary responsibility of the government.

He said part of the achievements was the provision of operational vehicles for security agencies and shifted focus from kinetic to non-kinetic approaches.

Similarly, Dr Murtala Bagana, Special Adviser to Niger Governor on Special Duties, said the Bago-led administration had attracted foreign investment through his foreign trips with countries like Russia.

He said the state government had embraced agriculture and livestock for sustainable development and embarked on urban renewal projects through overhaul of road infrastructure amongst others.(NAN)
Edited by Joe Idika

Access Bank partners Gate Foundation to empower 50,000 low-income women
Banking

Access Bank partners Gate Foundation to empower 50,000 low-income women

301 total views today

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

Access Bank has partnered with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Microsave Consulting Global Consulting Pte Ltd. to improve financial services for low-income women in rural communities across the country.

 

 

 

This initiative aims to empower women economically by providing them with access to financial resources, education, and opportunities.

 

 

 

Mr Robert Giles, Senior Retail Advisor in Access Bank, on Thursday, said that the initiative would focus on scaling female agent networks in Nigeria.

 

 

 

According to Giles, this is to expand successful programmes and increase the number and quality of female Cash-In, Cash-Out (CICO) agents in Nigeria.

 

 

 

He said that the project would address challenges like limited access to finance, financial education and training on managing an agent banking business in your community.

 

 

 

“This programme specifically focuses on helping more women become agents and to be more successful as agents, and the project is looking at factors around the social norms in different parts of the country.

 

 

 

“We’re looking at how we use data to identify who will be a successful agent and then how we help develop those agents to get the best outcomes. We’re also looking at how we can lend to those agents and how we can help them also lend into the community across Nigeria.

 

 

 

“We have over 60 million customers, and many of them prefer to be supported by agents. So the closer we can situate our agents to business activity, the more we can take the friction out of banking, and we’ve been able to do this over a long period of time,” he said.

 

 

 

Mrs Chizoba Iheme, Group Head, Agency Banking and Financial Inclusion in Access Bank, said the project would help more female agents to be successful in agency banking.

 

 

 

She said, “We have just signed a partnership with MSC Global Consulting Pte Ltd. and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to impact fifty thousand female agents.

 

 

 

“These are agents that carry out cash-in, cash-out across the country.

 

 

 

“We will lend to empower them to do more transactions, get gender-based disagregated data that will help us determine the true behaviour of a female agent.

 

 

 

“We will lend to these agents and also get them to lend to their customers. There will be capacity building initiatives and customised onboarding for these agents.

 

 

 

“This will help us drive financial inclusion in Nigeria, and we have designed a duration of three years to actualise this.”

 

 

 

Mr Akshat Pathak, Associate Partner at Microsave Consulting, stated that the partnership was launched in response to the observation that banking touchpoints in rural areas were still lagging behind.

 

 

 

Pathak noted that it was important for any financial institution to have a healthy balance of male and female agents as part of their network.

 

 

 

He explained that Access Bank had put in a lot of hard work to building its retail banking business, and the company is, in turn, supporting the bank in further expanding their agent networks.

 

 

 

“We have partnered with Access Bank and on a project which looks at scaling female agent networks across Nigeria. Agent networks in any country across Africa are very critical to improving financial inclusion for that particular country.

 

 

 

“If we have more female representatives as part of a financial network, we will empower many female customers at the end of the day.

 

 

 

“So, I feel our partnership with Access Bank is very important and we are looking at northern and central Nigeria as our key focus areas now; female agents as one of the key focus areas too.

 

 

 

“We will be looking for specific areas wherein we found that the penetration of banking touch points are still behind the curve.

 

 

 

“So, the idea is that we don’t go to a place wherein there is already infrastructure present. We need to identify those places where there are gaps in the infrastructure and how can we fill those gaps,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

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