News Agency of Nigeria
African SME association seeks deeper sensitisation for stronger enterprises
Foreign , General News

African SME association seeks deeper sensitisation for stronger enterprises

184 total views today

By Fortune Abang

The All Africa Association for Small and Medium Enterprises (AAASME) has called for deeper sensitisation aimed at making Small and Medium scale Enterprises (SMEs) stronger and repositioned for growth.

The President of AAASME, Dr Ebiekure Eradiri, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, proper sensitisation to the importance of SMEs will help create the much-needed awareness and advance business activities in Nigeria in particular and the continent at large.

Eradiri said, “There are 100 million SMEs in Africa, and then, the five regions of Africa are working with us as well, as structured for us to onboard all the SMEs.

“Interestingly, Nigeria has about 40 million SMEs, which is almost half of what you have across the continent, and so, Nigeria is critical for SME growth.

“SMEs are the engine room for economic growth. If SMEs are not active or not available, then how can you drive the AFCFTA effectively, which is the area we live in?.

“Therefore, there is a need for sensitisation to enable more people to harness the potential.

“SMEs should feature properly in all societies and take advantage of local and international markets, access opportunities for linkages, and be able to access finance that is critical to SME growth”.

He reiterated the need to stimulate SME operations’ ecosystem to bolster sustainable growth in the country.

The president stressed the major challenge facing SMEs had been that of critical engagement to ensure such goal is fully realised.

“There is a nexus between the private sector, business, and security. If you do not have a stable environment, you cannot even do business profitably.

“So, what we encourage is for SMEs to be prioritised, to perhaps help in silencing the guns through a platform for critical mass to engage in business ventures.

“By so doing, more people can get busy doing businesses that yield profit and, as such, not have time to carry guns. This is key to ensure the sustainability of the nation’s economy,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Emmanuel Yashim

Adeniyi’s emergence as WCO Chairman victory for Nigeria, Africa  – Edoh
Economy/Business

Adeniyi’s emergence as WCO Chairman victory for Nigeria, Africa  – Edoh

263 total views today

By Diana Omueza

Dr Raymond Edoh, says the appointment of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) is a glory and victory for Nigeria and Africa.

Edoh, a stakeholder in the maritime sector, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

NAN reports that the WCO Council, the global decision-making body on customs administration, formally endorsed Adeniyi as Chairperson, effective July 1.

“The WCO plays a pivotal role in establishing international customs standards and practices, fostering global trade, and promoting economic development,” Edoh said.

“Adeniyi’s appointment is a glory and victory for Nigeria and Africa, and a monumental step toward strengthening our role on the global stage.

“The resounding confidence shown by WCO member states in electing him underscores his commitment to enhancing international customs cooperation, trade facilitation, and effective border management,” he added.

Edoh noted that the historic appointment not only affirmed Adeniyi’s exemplary leadership within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), but also highlighted Nigeria’s rising stature in global affairs, particularly in trade and customs administration.

He emphasised that with Adeniyi at the helm of the WCO, strategic advancements in Nigeria Customs operations would align more closely with global standards and objectives.

Edoh also stressed the importance of maximising the potential benefits of the appointment for Nigeria and the African continent.

He called on the government to consider extending Adeniyi’s tenure as Comptroller-General to facilitate deeper collaboration between the NCS and WCO in pursuit of economic growth and regional security.

“There is a pressing need for digital transformation in Nigeria’s customs procedures to effectively combat illicit trade and foster sustainable practices.

“Extending Adeniyi’s tenure is crucial. He is a beacon of hope for Nigeria to address critical challenges with comprehensive and collaborative support from the WCO,” he said.

Edoh further stated that Adeniyi’s leadership would significantly enhance the capacity of Nigerian customs administration in promoting legitimate global trade.

“This is a valuable opportunity for the Nigerian government to strengthen international customs cooperation.

“Strong leadership at the helm of customs is essential to ensure unhindered trade flows and maintain Nigeria’s position as a global trading partner,” he added.

He urged all stakeholders to support Adeniyi’s leadership at the WCO by contributing expertise, technical knowledge, and innovative collaborations to protect and sustain the organisation and the Nigeria Customs.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Healthy population drives economic transformation – Experts
Health

Healthy population drives economic transformation – Experts

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By Vivian Ihechu

Some health experts and financial executives have emphasised the direct link between healthcare infrastructure and economic transformation.

They spoke during a conversation on “Reclaiming Africa’s Destiny through Investment and Innovation in Health Care” at the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM2005),  with the theme” Building the Future on Decades of Resilience”.

Mrs Oluranti Doherty, Managing Director of Export Development at Afreximbank, asserted that there is  a critical connection between national health and economic progress.

“We recognise that for Africa to achieve sustainable economic transformation, if it is going to be sustainable, we need a healthy population.

“Afreximbank has been innovative in recognising the connection between trade, economic transformation, and health security.’’

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the bank launched its Health and Medical Tourism Programme in 2012, predating global discussions about healthcare infrastructure.

“In 2012, we launched the health and medical tourism programme, and this was before anyone could connect the dots or make the connection between trade, there was an economic transformation.

“And this was also before people started talking about health, security, apprenticeship, the bank was innovative,’’ Doherty said.

Citing the AMCE, she said the investment targeted significant healthcare gaps, particularly in oncology, hematology, and cardiovascular treatments.

According to her, the state-of-the-art facility in Abuja represents a strategic approach to reversing medical brain drain and reducing costly medical tourism.

“Currently, African countries lose approximately Seven billion dollars annually through overseas medical treatments.

“Nigeria alone spends 1.1 billion dollars on medical procedures conducted outside its borders.

“We are African intellectual freedom fighters, fighting for financing, trade, and health security because we understand the fundamental connection between a healthy population and economic transformation,’’ Doherty said.

Also, Dr Brian Deaver, Chief Executive Officer of  AMCE,  highlighted the facility’s comprehensive approach.

“We’re not just building a hospital; we’re creating an ecosystem of medical excellence,” he said.

NAN reports that the centre  features 170 beds equipped with advanced technology and internationally recruited specialists.

The bank’s broader vision includes a two  billion dollars  financing programme dedicated to health and pharmaceutical development across Africa.

This initiative aims to support the African Union’s goal of achieving 40 per cent local vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing by 2040.

Prof.  Gulam Mufti, a key Advisor to the project, emphasised the transformative potential.

“This is about creating a leading global institution focused on research, innovation, and world-class treatment,” he said.

According to Mufti, a professor of Haemato-oncology, the investment goes beyond medical infrastructure, addressing critical challenges like sickle cell disease, which affects over 100 million people, with more than 65 per cent residing in Africa. (NAN)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

GetBundi announces 0,000 tech scholarship for African women
General News

GetBundi announces $250,000 tech scholarship for African women

218 total views today

 

By Olawunmi Ashafa

The GetBundi Education Foundation has introduced a digital skills programme that offers a 250,000 dollars scholarship fund for women.

The programme, tagged,  “TechSis 2025”, is expected to train 1,500 African women in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity – completely free of charge.

A statement by Mr Osita Oparaugo, Founder of Getbundi, a digital education platform, indicated that TechSis, currently in its third edition, is designed to empower young African women with the digital competencies needed to thrive in the global tech industry.

He said that application forms were available and urged upcoming women to apply for an opportunity to participate in the programme.

“The fully virtual, intensive four-month training programme is open to women of African descent between the ages of 19 and 40, regardless of location, who are committed to transitioning into the tech sector.

“Building on the success and insights from TechSis 2023 and 2024, we are scaling our efforts to meet the growing demand for digital inclusion,” Oparaugo said.

He said that the goal was to equip African women with the digital skills they need to drive innovation and economic empowerment across the continent.

“The TechSis initiative was launched in 2023 as a bold response to the digital gender divide in Africa.

“In its inaugural year, 500 women were trained in coding. By 2024, the programme scaled up to train 1,000 women in web development and data analytics.

“With TechSis 2025, GetBundi aims to deliver high-impact, future-proof training to 1,500 more women, targeting two of the most in-demand digital fields globally.

“Digital exclusion disproportionately affects women across Africa; through TechSis, we are not only offering skills, but creating pathways for women to enter and lead in tech, shape innovation, and contribute to a more inclusive digital economy,” he said.

He explained that courses offered – Data Analytics and Cybersecurity – would run fully online via live classes, self-paced modules, hands-on projects, examinations and certification.

Urging applicants to visit www.getbundi.com, he explained that TechSis initiative is part of the GetBundi Education Foundation’s broader mission to provide accessible, high-quality STEM digital skills training to African learners.

“As the Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) arm of GetBundi Education Technology, the foundation is dedicated to promoting equity, inclusion and opportunity through technology education,” he said.

The innovative edtech platform offers STEM education to post-primary school students, digital literacy training, and digital skills development to adult learners across Africa. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

China, Africa to collaborate against stereotypes in relations
Foreign

China, Africa to collaborate against stereotypes in relations

261 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

CHINADAILY has reaffirmed commitment to promote a more positive and accurate portrayal of Africa-China relations to combat negative stereotypes that have suffused international discourse.

The media organisation stated this during a courtesy visit to by delegates incorporating Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries and International Department Central Committee of Communist Party of China (IDCPC) in Beijing.

Mr Sun Shangwu, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of China Daily, emphasised the importance of addressing misconceptions surrounding the connections between Africa and China.

Highlighting the need for a balanced narrative that showcases the mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations, Sun said, “It is essential to highlight shared achievements and prospects to dispel baseless stereotypes that hinder our partnership.”

He also noted that China Daily has regional offices in Africa and would collaborate with African news agencies to produce content such as articles, interviews, and multimedia projects that highlight the positive impacts of cooperation between China and African nations.

These projects would cover various areas like joint technological ventures, infrastructure development, trade partnerships, and cultural exchanges to demonstrate the depth of engagement between the two regions.

“We believe that this approach will amplify African voices and perspectives in discussions about the relationship and include authentic narratives from Africa to avoid misrepresentation,” he said.

Ms Sarafina Christopher, a delegate and media representative from the News Agency of Nigeria, welcomed China Daily’s commitment to promoting positive narratives amidst increased global scrutiny of Africa-China relations.

She also acknowledged that critiques often paint the relationship as exploitative, disregarding the substantial contributions made by both parties to each other’s advancement.

“We believe that by showcasing uplifting stories, China Daily will challenge these misrepresentations and offer a comprehensive perspective on the partnership.

“An accurate portrayal can enhance understanding and bolster ties between the people of both regions,” she said.

Christopher also reiterated African Media’s dedication to advocating the positive aspects of Africa-China collaboration to shape new narratives centered on mutual growth and benefits.

“This publication aspires to inspire narratives that underline partnership and mutual benefits by highlighting the positive aspects of Africa-China collaboration.

“We believe that this joint initiative between China Daily and African media is not just responsible journalism but also highlights the importance of fostering an effective approach to international relations,” she said.

NAN reports that Chen Zhiming, Song Ping, Yang Fang, Li Changxiang, and Shao Xinying of CHINADAILY also gave significant contribution to the advancement of Africa-China relations through their respective roles and efforts.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Woof Studios host Africa’s Creators at 2025 Cannes
Entertainment

Woof Studios host Africa’s Creators at 2025 Cannes

286 total views today

By Nana Musa

The Woof Studios Africa, a leading Creator Service Provider (CSP), says it will host a featured session at the prestigious LIONS Creators Forum during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2025.

 

Adetutu Laditan, marketing expert and creative director at Woof Studios, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

She said that with the titled “Cracking the Code with Africa’s Creators,” the session would hold on June 17 at the Creators Rooftop on the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes.

 

This marks the first time an African-led creator delegation will speak at the Lions Creators Forum.

 

She added that this historic moment signals a new chapter in the inclusion of diverse, global perspectives in the creator economy.

 

‘’With its booming digital infrastructure, rich storytelling traditions, and a growing population of tech-savvy youth, Africa represents one of the most exciting and underleveraged frontiers in the creator economy.

 

‘’This panel will explore how African creators are not only shaping narratives on the continent but also influencing global trends in marketing, content creation, and brand engagement.

 

Laditan said that the panellists would dive into key themes, including how global brands can collaborate with African creators in culturally intelligent, purpose-driven ways, and African creators in advancing social impact and sustainability.

 

She said they would also explore how to harness Africa’s creative energy to build globally resonant, locally authentic campaigns on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

 

The African delegation will include Ifeyinwa Mogekwu- Nigerian food entrepreneur and Cent Twinz- South African twin influencers with a pan-African footprint.

 

Others are Israel Apeti- Ghanaian visual artist and digital creator and Mpoomy Ledwaba- South African entrepreneur and motivational storyteller.

 

“This panel is not just a win for Africa; it is a wake-up call for the global industry. We’re not asking for a seat at the table, we’re bringing our table, with stories, insights, and cultural depth that the world needs.

 

‘’If brands want to future-proof their strategies, they must understand and collaborate with creators from the world’s youngest and most dynamic continent,” Laditan said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

China pledges deeper ties with Africa
Foreign

China pledges deeper ties with Africa

298 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

Russia remains reliable partner contributing to Africa’s sovereignty – Lavrov
Foreign

Russia remains reliable partner contributing to Africa’s sovereignty – Lavrov

253 total views today

 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Russia remains a reliable partner to Africa and will continue to contribute to the continent’s sovereignty.

The Russian Foreign Minister said this at a reception held in Moscow on the occasion of Africa Day, as published by the official website of the Russian Foreign Ministry, partners of TV BRICS.

The event was attended by Lavrov and the Ambassador of the Republic of Cameroon to the Russian Federation, Mahamat Paba Sale.

“Russia remains a reliable partner contributing to Africa’s sovereignty,” the Russian minister said.

Lavrov also underscored the importance of Africa in international politics and the historical process.

“Our country is invariably in favour of expanding traditionally friendly relations with African partners,” he added.

He emphasised Russia’s support for strengthening education and economic development of African countries.

Responding, Sale noted the “special importance” of Russian-African relations.

“Russia has played a key role in the process of independence of African countries, supporting the aspiration for progress of their peoples,” the Cameroonian diplomat said.

According to him, Russian universities train qualified personnel who are in demand in Africa, while the expansion of trade ties brings tangible benefits to local economies.

Sale expressed confidence that the partnership between Russia and Africa will only get stronger.

He expressed gratitude to the Russian side for the attention and support it is giving to Africa. (TV BRICS/NAN) 

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

CBAAC reaffirms Nigeria’s leadership in cultural diplomacy, prepares for FESTAC @50
Culture & Tourism

CBAAC reaffirms Nigeria’s leadership in cultural diplomacy, prepares for FESTAC @50

376 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

Director-General of Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), Aisha Augie, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s leading position in cultural diplomacy on the African continent.

This, she said, was even as the country geared up for the golden jubilee of one of its most historic cultural events—FESTAC.

Augie, while speaking with newsmen in Abuja on Thursday after a closed-door session with the Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism, emphasised Nigeria’s enduring legacy in promoting African culture globally.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism is chaired by Sen. Ogoshi Onawo (PDP-Nasarawa).

Augie described Nigeria’s cultural impact as ‘unmatched’, citing the FESTAC ’77 as a landmark event that placed the country at the centre of Africa’s cultural revival.

According to her, the FESTAC at 50, slated for 2027, offers another opportunity to showcase the richness of African heritage.

The director-general, who stated that FESTAC ’77 laid the foundation for cultural unity and cooperation across the continent, said that preparations for the anniversary were already underway.

“As we approach 50 years since that historic gathering, we must build on the legacy,” she said.

Augie also noted the significant infrastructure and policy milestones that accompanied the festival, many of which, she said, had continued to serve as cultural landmarks in Nigeria.

“From the National Theatre in Lagos to FESTAC Town, the legacy of that moment endures,” she added.

The director-general said that the committee acknowledged the importance of adequately funding cultural institutions in order to harness Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

“The senate assured us that cultural bodies like CBAAC will receive the budgetary backing needed to carry out their mandates,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

U.S. shifting to ‘investment-led’ strategy in Africa- Senior official
Foreign

U.S. shifting to ‘investment-led’ strategy in Africa- Senior official

242 total views today

U.S. trade with Africa ‘will be much more focused around a reciprocal relationship, one that addresses the needs on both sides,’ says ambassador Troy Fitrell.

Ambassador Troy Fitrell, senior official at the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, said that Washington is “very directly, very intentionally” shifting toward an “investment-led” strategy in Africa.

“The future of the U.S. trade with Africa “will be much more focused around a reciprocal relationship, one that addresses the needs on both sides,” Fitrell said at an online news conference.

He said trade reflects an “exchange between equals” in an activity, unlike the assistance-led paradigm that the U.S. had in the past, which involved “a donor and a recipient, instead of having it being negotiated with equals.”

Fitrell said he tasked ambassadors to “go out and find” commercial opportunities to advocate for US companies, identify opportunities, push for market reforms to enhance the business environment and engage host governments on those issues.

He said as the U.S’ African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) marches to its end date, “it is our Congress who has the responsibility to revise, renew, or re-establish it.”

The envoy added that “if there’s going to be a renewal of AGOA, it will probably reflect the modern world rather than the one from 25 years ago when it was first founded.”

AGOA is a special law enacted in the year 2000 that grants duty-free access to nearly 40 sub-Saharan African nations to US markets.(AA/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Mark Longyen)

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