News Agency of Nigeria
NANPF hails Tinubu on Nigeria-Brazil aviation deal

NANPF hails Tinubu on Nigeria-Brazil aviation deal

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By Victor Okoye

The Nigeria Association of National Professional Footballers (NANPF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for signing a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with Brazil.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the agreement, signed during Tinubu’s official visit to Brazil, is expected to improve air travel and boost sporting and professional exchanges between both countries.

CSP Chijioke Kalu, NANPF Director of Players’ Safety and Security, told NAN on Friday that the agreement could transform Nigerian football through strategic collaboration with Brazilian and South American football clubs.

He said the deal would enhance player exchange, technical partnerships, and competitive exposure for Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs.

Kalu noted that Brazil enjoys global football prestige, having produced legends like Pelé, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Neymar, and winning five FIFA World Cup titles.

He said Brazil’s experience hosting the FIFA World Cup and Olympics offers valuable insights for Nigeria in football infrastructure and stadium safety.

Kalu added that Brazil’s expertise in facility maintenance and crowd control management could benefit Nigerian football administrators and the NPFL.

He urged the NPFL, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and other leagues to act fast in leveraging the aviation deal’s opportunities.

He called for proactive engagement with Brazilian football bodies on youth development, training camps, friendlies, and scouting exchanges.

President Tinubu confirmed the deal on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle following his visits to Japan and Brazil.

He said the agreement aligns with his government’s goal of restoring Nigeria’s global standing and driving reforms.

Tinubu said the Japan trip focused on technology and industry, while Brazil opened new cooperation in aviation, trade, and sports.

Kalu, who is also a board member of the Nigerian Mixed Martial Arts Federation, noted wider benefits for other sports.

He said Brazil’s leadership in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts presents opportunities for Nigerian athletes and coaches.

He said Nigerian fighters could access Brazilian training camps, take part in coaching exchanges, and compete internationally.

Kalu advised sports authorities to include martial arts in future exchange programmes with Brazil.

He urged them to learn from Brazil’s successful sports infrastructure and training systems to grow Nigeria’s sports sector.

Kalu said Brazil has become a global sports leader by leveraging its expertise in football and combat sports.

He described the Nigeria-Brazil aviation deal as a strategic opportunity for long-term development and international sports diplomacy.

Kalu said proper planning can unlock career paths, raise standards, and deliver lasting value for Nigerian sports. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

‎Tinubu pledges tech-led growth, food security

‎Tinubu pledges tech-led growth, food security

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‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has pledged to fast-track Nigeria’s development through technology and food security, aligning with the success models of emerging economies like Brazil.

‎Speaking during a Tuesday evening meeting with Nigerians in the Diaspora in Brazil, Tinubu emphasised his administration’s commitment to transformation through innovation, reform, and inclusive growth.

‎“We must bring Nigeria to the forefront of Africa’s progress, driven by technology, food sovereignty, and the courage to change our destiny,” Tinubu declared.

‎The President described his state-visit as a strategic move to deepen bilateral ties and draw inspiration from Brazil’s impressive development trajectory.

‎He noted that both nations once shared similar economic starting points.

‎“Once upon a time, Nigeria and Brazil stood on the same level. Look at Brazil today, its technology, its food systems. We must ask ourselves: what do they have that we don’t?” he retorted.

‎“We have the brains, the energy, and the youth. We have everything we need. Now, we must act.”

‎Commending the vibrant Nigerian Diaspora community, Tinubu urged them to see themselves as key stakeholders in building a new Nigeria rooted in innovation, culture, and shared responsibility.

‎“You are the pride of our nation. Your diversity, your commitment, it reflects the Nigeria we are working to build. I salute you all,’’ he said.

‎The President acknowledged the difficulties citizens are facing, due to ongoing economic reforms, but insisted they are essential steps toward long-term stability and prosperity.

‎“Yes, the reforms are tough, like bitter medicine. But, once the fever is gone, you know the cure was worth it,” Tinubu explained.

‎Referencing his recent diplomatic shuttles, the President said his government is laying the groundwork for global partnerships that can unlock Nigeria’s potential in manufacturing, technology, and cultural exchange.

‎“We can manufacture. We can design. We can build a nation that works, purposefully and prosperously for all of us,” he said.

‎Tinubu also voiced support for an upcoming voyage involving Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, inspired by a cultural initiative he began while serving as Lagos State governor.

‎“If Wole Soyinka, at over 90, can still dream and act, then we have no excuse. The dream must be realized. The time is now,” Tinubu stressed.

‎He appealed passionately for Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora to foster unity, peace and passion to develop a Nigeria everybody can truly be proud to call home.

‎Earlier, Mr Chika Emmanuel, President, Nigerian Diaspora Organisation of Brazil, hailed President Bola Tinubu for fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and Brazil, while pledging the diaspora’s active support for national development.

‎“First of all I want to thank you and your team for the incredible job you’re doing for us.

‎`We have never denied the fact that we do have challenges. We know, but, we have stopped complaining, and we have chosen to work.”

‎He emphasised the Diaspora’s role as a development partner, highlighting the rise in Nigerian postgraduate scholars in Brazil.

‎“Before my election, we had only three PhD students, but right now, which is a year and half after my assumption of office, we now have 296 PhD students here in Brazil, and all on scholarships, s

‎“We are also looking for direct investment back home, especially in the area of agriculture, technology and infrastructure.

‎“We would like to be a channel to this national development,’’ he said.

‎Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, described the meeting as a moment of great historical significance, marking a new chapter in Nigeria’s engagement with its global community.

‎He acknowledged the deep-rooted historical ties between Nigeria and Brazil ties forged through centuries of migration and cultural exchange, while stressing the need to rekindling those bonds.

‎The Speaker lauded President Tinubu’s efforts in strengthening bilateral ties with Brazil, noting that recent diplomatic and cultural initiatives have laid the groundwork for future collaborations between the two nations.

‎Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who spoke on behalf of governors on President Tinubu’s delegation, praised the economic policies of the Tinubu administration as transformational.



‎“In the past, it was almost impossible to convince any investor to come to Nigeria,

‎“But just last year, Mr. President cleared a 7 billion dollar forex backlog, a major intervention.”

‎According to the governor, Nigeria now offers an environment where investors can bring in capital and repatriate profits without facing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles or foreign exchange crises.

‎“Before, even Nigerians in Nigeria, couldn’t invest freely. But now, any investor can come in, do business, and take their profits out without stress.”

‎He credited the elimination of multiple exchange rates and improved transparency in the financial system, as key factors building investor’s confidence.

‎Speaker Abass said that the introduction of direct flights from Lagos to São Paulo is expected to boost economic activity around the route, potentially creating the need for a Nigerian consulate in the city.

‎ He assured that the National Assembly stands ready to support President Tinubu in advancing the initiative.

‎Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, urged Nigerians residing in São Paulo and surrounding areas to continue utilizing the existing liaison office, until necessary upgrades are implemented.

‎The meeting anchored by the CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri was attended by top government officials including Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau.

‎Others are: Ministers of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Trade, Jumoke Oduwole, Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, as well as representatives of Nigerians living in Brazil, students, diplomats and cultural ambassadors. (NAN)

‎Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Nigeria, Brazil sign air service deal for direct flights

Nigeria, Brazil sign air service deal for direct flights

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Nigeria has signed a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with the Brazil, paving the way for direct flights between both countries.

This is contained in a statement by Mr Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in Abuja.

The agreement was signed in Brazil by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, and Brazil’s Minister of Transport, Mr Silvio Costa Filho.

The event was witnessed by President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil.

According to the statement, the BASA establishes a framework for direct air connectivity between Nigeria and Brazil, unlocking new opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people exchange.

The agreement is also expected to promote stronger economic integration, enhance cultural relations, and deepen diplomatic cooperation between the two countries.

“This agreement is a strategic milestone that underscores President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s global partnerships and creating an enabling environment for commerce and mobility,” the statement said.

President Tinubu began a two-day state visit to Brazil on Monday, during which the BASA was signed.

He was warmly received in Brasília by President Lula da Silva, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties between the largest economies in Africa and South America.

In his remarks, President Lula lauded the agreement and expressed Brazil’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in aviation, agriculture, infrastructure development, and other key areas.

During the visit, President Tinubu is also scheduled to meet with the President of the Brazilian Senate, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.

The working visit will feature high-level engagements between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across various sectors, highlighting both nations’ commitment to mutual growth and prosperity.

President Tinubu was accompanied by senior cabinet members, including Mr Olawale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and Amb, Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

Others in the delegation include Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Mr Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security; as well as other top government officials.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Abiemwense Moru

VP’s wife, Brazilian counterpart to collaborate on pet project

VP’s wife, Brazilian counterpart to collaborate on pet project

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By Joan Nwagwu

Hajiya Nana Shettima, Wife of the Vice President, says she would collaborate with Mrs Maria Alckmin, her counterpart from Brazil to support the downtrodden in Nigeria.

Hajiya Shettima said this when Mrs Alckmin, paid her a courtesy visit at her residence on Wednesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Mrs Alckmin is in Nigeria in the company of her husband, Mr Geraldo Alckmin, Vice President of Brazil for the Second Session of the Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM).

The Dialogue is expected to culminate in the signing of over thirty Memoranda of Understanding across critical sectors, including defence cooperation, agricultural technology transfer, among others.

Hajiya Shettima, who said she was impressed by her counterpart’s NGO which had trained no fewer 100,000 Brazillian women on bread making, mulled replicating it in Nigeria.

“I will see how I can partner with your pet project,
“I believed that this partnership will go a long way once we have a big bakery. For us, maybe we would target widows.

“It will help to put food on their table with their children and still serve as a source of empowerment for them to generate income for their families,’’ she said.

Hajiya Shettima said, she equally had a pet project when she was the first lady of Borno for eight years, giving free education to females and orphans.

She commended Mrs Alckmin for her visit to Nigeria while hoping that the bond between Nigeria and Brazil would be sustained.

Earlier, Mrs Alckmin, said she was excited to be in Nigeria and also to seek collaboration on her pet project.

Alckmin said her Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) started over 24 years back, when her husband was the Governor of Sao Paulo state in Brazil.

“We teach women how make bread and I was inspired to do this when I came across some women, who said that they were hungry and wanted to eat bread.

“The NGO have become more successful and we have them in 17 states of our country, Brazil.

“We have trained no fewer than 100,000 women on how to make bread and our goal is to reach all the states in Brazil.

“I will like to partner with you in this area, in reaching the women who are poor,’’ she said. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Brazil proposes priorities for professional education in BRICS countries

Brazil proposes priorities for professional education in BRICS countries

316 total views today

 

Members of the BRICS Bloc are taking steps to strengthen cooperation in the field of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as a key tool for sustainable socio-economic development, according to the official website of the Brazilian Government.

The Brazilian Ministry of Education hosted a meeting of the BRICS TVET Cooperation Alliance (BRICS TCA), which discussed expanding access to education, innovation, and training for skills in demand in the labour market.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministries of Education, scientific institutions and international organisations of the BRICS countries.

The participants exchanged experiences in implementing vocational education programmes and identified priorities for further cooperation.

Francisco Figueiredo, Special Advisor to the Brazilian Minister of Education, emphasised the importance of the group as a platform for exchanging policies and best practices and establishing direct links between relevant
institutions in the participating countries.

Marcelo Bregagnoli, State Secretary for Technological and Professional Education of the Brazilian Ministry of Education, noted a significant increase in the number of students in this field. According to the 2024 census, more than 2.5 million schoolchildren are enrolled in secondary vocational education programmes, of which more than 1.5 million are in public institutions.

The meeting participants identified three priority areas: ensuring the quality and accessibility of education for young people, enhancing the role of vocational education in the economic development of BRICS countries.

It also underscored the introduction of new technologies and innovative methods in education as one of the priority areas.

Chinese representative Zhai Jinming noted that BRICS TCA has become an important platform for deepening cooperation between countries in the field of vocational education.

He expressed confidence that student and teacher exchanges as well as joint research and training programmes will expand.

Representatives from Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, and the UAE also participated in the discussions. (TV BRICS/NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Brazil unveils AI development programme at BRICS forum

Brazil unveils AI development programme at BRICS forum

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Brazil has launched artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives at the BRICS High Level Forum on AI, co-organised with China.

The event discussed the prospects for technological development and cooperation in the Global South.

This was reported by the press service of the Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.

Brazil’s Secretary of Science and Technology for Digital Transformation Henrique Miguel presented the national programme on AI, focused on ethical, sustainable and independent development of technologies.

He said the strategy included the launch of one of the five most powerful supercomputers in the world, powered by renewable energy, as well as the creation of high-performance processors in collaboration with international partners.

“Our goal is to provide Brazil with advanced infrastructure, train highly skilled professionals, and stimulate innovation in strategic sectors,” Miguel said.

At the forum, representatives of the association’s countries presented key analytical documents, including a report on the prospects for AI development in BRICS countries and a compendium of AI products and applications.

The Brazilian side emphasised the importance of deepening cooperation in semiconductors, large language models, quantum technologies, and data management. (TV BRICS/NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

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