NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Economy/Business

Nigeria, China strengthen bilateral ties to drive economic development, Innovation

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By Lucy Ogalue

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, with a focus on driving economic development, infrastructure growth, and technological innovation.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, said this at the Nigeria-China Economic and Trade Partnership Forum Roundtable in Abuja on Monday.

Tuggar, represented by Amb. Bolaji Akinremi, Director, Economic and Trade Infrastructure Department (ETID), said that the relationship between the two nations had evolved significantly over the years.

He reiterated the importance of the recently established Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between both countries, adding that the partnership would strengthen trade, investment, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development.

“The establishment of this partnership marks a milestone in the relations between our two countries.

“It is an opportunity for us to collaborate more extensively in key areas like infrastructure development, trade, investment, capacity building, and people-to-people exchanges,” he said.

The minister further assured participants that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue to facilitate closer cooperation with Chinese counterparts and relevant stakeholders.

He said that efforts would be intensified, to ensure that projects under the new partnership were successfully implemented.

Also speaking, Mr Joseph Tegbe, Director-General of the China-Nigeria Strategic Partnership, expressed optimism about the future of the two nations’ economic collaboration.

According to Tegbe, the relationship between Nigeria and China has been built on mutual respect, shared goals, and the pursuit of joint development for over 50 years.

“Over the years, we have seen significant progress in areas like infrastructure, trade, energy, health and education.

“Our relationship is not just about economic growth, but also about creating opportunities that will benefit both countries and the people,” he said

He emphasised the critical role of strategic coordination between both governments, adding that sectors like agriculture, mining, alternative energy, and healthcare would receive priority attention under the partnership.

He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to advancing industrialisation and moving towards a net-export position, positioning China as a key partner in this effort.

Mr Zhang Liang, Head of the Chinese delegation and Secretary-General of the LVY Road International Cooperation Center, expressed China’s firm support for strengthening the bilateral relationship.

According to him, China and Nigeria have a shared vision for development and prosperity, thus the need to deepen collaboration.

“China and Nigeria, as two major developing countries, have long respected each other and worked together to achieve common progress.

“With our strengthened comprehensive strategic partnership, we are confident that we can usher in a new era of cooperation, benefiting not only our nations but also the broader Global South,” Liang stated.

He restated the importance of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which had elevated China-Nigeria relations and opened new avenues for collaboration.

Liang also praised the China-Nigeria Economic and Trade Conference, which provided Nigerian and Chinese businesses a platform to engage in fruitful discussions aimed at advancing trade and investment.

He, therefore, encouraged the facilitation of in-depth negotiations, strengthened cooperation and early implementation of projects to achieve the goals of both countries.

Also, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Amb. Nura Rimi , said that Nigeria sought deeper cooperation with China in agriculture, mining, renewable energy and technology sectors, among others.

According to Rimi, Nigeria has enacted various policies to enable it to attract investments and promote responsible, inclusive and sustainable trade and investment growth.

He urged the Chinese businesses to view Nigeria as an ideal investment destination, emphasising its position as Africa’s largest economy and a gateway to other regions.

He therefore expressed hope that the forum would foster stronger relations between the two nations and lead to fruitful discussions on strategic partnerships and investments.

Mr Khalil Halilu, Chief Executive Officer, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), said that the presence of over 20 Chinese companies at the forum was a testament of the opportunities in Nigeria.

He expressed optimism that the partnership would contribute significantly to the growth and development of both countries.

The Director-General, Rural Electrification Energy of Nigeria, Mr Abba Aliyu, while stating the mandate of the agency, also expressed confidence in the collaboration with China.

He said that the agency signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with China during President Bola Tinubu’s visit, adding that the agency had begun the process of implementation of the projects.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by government officials, Heads of Agencies, representatives of companies from Nigeria and China, stakeholders, and partners among others. (NAN)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Metro

Nigeria, India vow spike in economic, defence, other ties

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Nigeria and India have reaffirmed their commitment to a robust strategic partnership.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that both countries also pledged to strengthen ties in key areas including economic development, defence, healthcare and food security, among others.

This is contained in a joint statement issued on Sunday in Abuja at the conclusion of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Nigeria at the invitation of President Bola Tinubu.

NAN reports that the Indian prime minister received a formal welcome, including a 21-artillery gun salute at the Presidential Villa.

Tinubu and Modi went into a tete-a-tete, and later jointly presided over an expanded bilateral and political talks.

During their bilateral discussion, the two leaders agreed to a greater collaboration in counterterrorism, maritime security, and intelligence sharing.

With growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, they also agreed to coordinated actions to safeguard maritime trade routes and combat piracy.

The two countries pledged to continue regular naval exercises and joint anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Guinea to safeguard critical maritime routes.

‘” The leaders reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations including the cross-border movement of terrorists and terror financing networks and safe havens.

‘” They called for zero tolerance to terrorism and expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International terrorism in the UN Framework.

“They also called for the implementation of the UNGA and the UNSC resolutions on countering terrorism and violent extremism.

”It was agreed to enhance cooperation in the area of counter terrorism,” the joint statement said.

Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support Nigeria’s defence modernisation efforts, highlighting India’s emergence as a trusted defence manufacturer.

Similarly, the two leaders also highlighted the vibrant economic relationship between India and Nigeria, with India positioned as Nigeria’s largest trading partner and a significant contributor to its economy.

Nigeria commended the contributions of over 200 Indian companies operating in the country, which have generated substantial employment and investment opportunities.

On bilateral trade expansion, both leaders directed their officials to finalise pending agreements.

” These include the Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA), Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), and the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), to boost trade and investment.

” The fruitification of some of the investments” agreed to by the Indian companies during the visit of President Tinubu to India in September 2023, and committed to facilitating early finalization of the remaining investments.

On the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit held from September 9th-10th, 2023, in New Delhi, the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable and Business Conference had taken place.

During the conference, Indian investors pledged a combined total of over $14 billion across critical sectors of the Nigerian economy.

The investments were targeted on industrialisation, energy, telecommunications, and defence sectors

On infrastructure Development, the joint statement added that India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development priorities through concessional Lines of credit and technical expertise.

On energy, Nigeria and India agreed on long-term contracts for crude oil and LNG supply and technical support in pipeline transmission security, CNG conversion and LPG bottling distribution.

The two leaders also discussed broader collaboration on food security and agriculture, health, education, and cultural exchanges.

Also, on food security, the leaders agreed that it remains a priority for developing countries especially with bigger populations.

”Nigeria thanked India for providing the necessary concessions sought for in the supply of rice at the time of their need.

”They agreed to enhance collaboration in the area of agriculture from agricultural machinery, high yield seeds to sharing technical expertise, know-how and technologies and agreed to identify ways of cooperation in these areas.

”The Indian side thanked the Nigerian side for supporting the Indian Resolution at the UN to declare 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

” And agreed to increase collaboration between India and Nigeria in the area of Millets, ” the joint statement said.

On healthcare sector, Nigeria and India pledged to deepen their collaboration focusing on the establishment of hospitals and diagnostic centers, as well as the deployment of innovative health management systems.

Both sides acknowledged the ongoing efforts by Indian hospitals operating in Nigeria and highlighted the vast potential for further collaboration to enhance healthcare delivery across the country.

The Indian Government offered to share its CoWIN digital platform, an open-source health management infrastructure that has revolutionised vaccination campaigns and health data management in India.

It said, ” This system is expected to support Nigeria’s healthcare system by improving the efficiency and accessibility of vaccination programs and other health initiatives. ”

The Indian government also extended its commitment to supply high-quality generic pharmaceutical products to Nigeria at economical rates under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) scheme.

The scheme is a campaign launched by India’s Department of Pharmaceuticals to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses.

The statement said,” The initiative is aimed at making essential medicines more affordable, particularly for vulnerable populations, and supporting Nigerian public hospital procurement processes.”

Nigeria and India reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration on education, cultural exchanges, and fostering strong people-to-people contacts, building on longstanding historical ties and mutual aspirations.

India was acknowledged as a significant partner in Nigeria’s human resource development through various scholarship programs, including the eVBAB scheme, which facilitates virtual learning opportunities.

Both sides agreed to work together to encourage more Nigerian students to leverage these scholarship programmes.

Tinubu and Modi applauded the vibrant cultural and academic exchanges between the two nations, which have included visits by cultural troupes, participation in film and literary festivals, and other collaborative activities.

They underscored the importance of further widening these exchanges to promote mutual understanding and shared heritage.

The leaders recognised the role of tourism in enhancing people-to-people connections and emphasised the need to explore opportunities for promoting travel and cultural interaction between Nigeria and India.

On working together through its membership in international organisations, India commended Nigeria for its reciprocal support of non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for 2028-2029.

The two countries reiterated their joint commitment to UN Security Council reform and mutual support for permanent and non-permanent memberships.

They also pledged cooperation on regional peace and security, particularly in West Africa.

Nigeria ‘took note’ of India’s invitation to join the Global Biofuel Alliance and Global Rivers Cities Alliance.

It said, ”As members of International Solar Alliance (ISA), both sides agreed to intensify their cooperation in establishing solar parks and to work towards increasing the share of the renewable energy in their energy portfolio.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

General News

GCON honour on Modi, Indian’s PM, excites community

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By Taiye Olayemi

The Indian community in Nigeria has expressed happiness over the conferment of the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger(GCON), award on its home Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 

Mr Sanjay Srivastava, Founder of Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP), Nigeria Chapter, in a statement on Sunday, said the award was a testament to Modi’s contributions to strengthening bilateral relations between India and Nigeria.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that President Bola Tinubu on Sunday, during the Nigeria/India Bilateral meeting held in Abuja, conferred the national honour on the Indian Prime Minister.

 

Th president said that the award was bestowed on the Indian leader to signify Nigeria’s appreciation and commitment to the Nigerian-Indian partnership.

 

Queen Elizabeth is the only foreign dignitary to have received such honour in 1969.

 

NAN also reports that the Nigerian recognition is the 17th such international award conferred on PM Modi by a foreign country.

 

Srivastava said that Modi’s recognition was a significant milestone in India-Nigeria relations, reflecting his tireless efforts toward fostering cooperation and mutual understanding between the two nations.

 

“On behalf of the Indian community in Nigeria, along with the General Secretary of OFBJP Nigeria, Mr Pravin Kumar, and Vice Presidents Vikas Kane and Mr Sabir Ali, we extend our congratulations to PM Modi for this exceptional recognition.

 

“The Indian community in Nigeria sees PM Modi’s GCON honour as a moment of pride, recognising his dedication to promoting global cooperation and development.

 

“This award will undoubtedly further solidify the bond between India and Nigeria, paving the way for increased collaboration and mutual growth,” he said.

 

“After receiving the honour, Modi addressed a gathering of Indian diaspora in Abuja, where he dedicated the honour to the people of India and the resilient Indian community residing in Nigeria.

 

“Modi’s inspiring speech highlighted the enduring bond between India and Nigeria.

 

“Modi emphasised the need to further deepen strategic partnership across various sectors such as defence, energy, technology, trade, health and education.

 

“The Prime Minister also reflected on the remarkable progress achieved in the last decade, nurturing the shared vision of collaboration based on Bharatiya philosophy and values.”

 

He further quoted Modi as saying that honouring him with Nigeria’s National Award was an honour that belongs to the people of India.

 

“This honour belongs to all of you, Indians living here in Nigeria,” Modi was quoted as saying.

 

Srivastava, who is also the President of the Afro Asian Initiative for Community Development, noted that under Modi’s leadership, India had made significant strides in various sectors.

 

He said the growth had been in the area of economic development, digital revolution, international cooperation and many more.

 

“Initiatives like Jan Dhan, MUDRA Bank and Unified Pension Scheme have transformed India’s economic landscape, while programmes like BharatNet, DigiLocker and UMANG have bridged the digital divide and enhanced services,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Ephraims Sheyin

General News

PM Modi’s visit to Nigeria sparks jubilation among indians

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Mr Sanjay Srivastava, Founder of OFBJP, Nigeria Chapter

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

The Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP), Nigeria Chapter, has expressed excitement over Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s planned visit to Nigeria from Nov. 16 to Nov.17.

 

Mr Sanjay Srivastava, Founder of OFBJP, in a statement, on Wednesday, said the visit would boost bilateral ties between Nigeria and India.

 

“This is the first visit of our beloved Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nigeria since he assumed office in 2014, and this marks almost 18 years since a prime ministerial visit to Nigeria.

 

“This visit will enhance bilateral ties, strengthen our diplomatic, cultural, and economic relationships. So, we are excited look forward to a rewarding experience,” he said.

 

Srivastava, who is also the President of the Afro-Asian Initiative for Community Development, said the India Support Group in Nigeria was eagerly awaiting the arrival of Modi to Nigeria.

 

According to him, this will  spur a new chapter of friendship and trade promotion with Nigeria.

 

“The India Support Group is wholeheartedly ready to honour the Prime Minister’s arrival,” he said

 

He disclosed that among those to welcome Modi were: Mr Pravin Kumar, General Seceratary of OFBJP Nigeria, Mr Vikas Kane and Mr Sabir, Vice Presidents of OFBJP Nigeria.

 

Srivastava noted that the visit aimed to solidify trade and investment opportunities, enhance cooperation in key sectors like energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

 

He said that Nigeria and India were expected to explore deeper educational, cultural, and people-to-people connections to celebrate shared values and traditions.

 

“It is planned that there would be joint efforts to address security challenges, counter-terrorism, and maritime security will be highlighted to align with regional and global stability goals, ” he said.

 

He said further that India was committed to contributing to Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and skill-building programmes, offering expertise in medical services and workforce development.

 

“India and Nigeria will explore sustainable energy partnerships, focusing on renewable energy solutions to meet Nigeria’s energy needs while supporting environmental goals.

 

“This historic visit, culminating with discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Bola Tinubu, signifies a strengthened India-Nigeria alliance, committed to a prosperous future, built on mutual respect and shared goals,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Folasade Adeniran

Environment

FG pledges commitment to ODF Nigeria by 2030

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By Tosin Kolade

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev has pledged commitment to ending open defecation across Nigeria, calling for intensified efforts from all stakeholders to achieve this goal.

Utsev, speaking with newsmen on Friday in Abuja, noted that achieving an open defecation-free status involved more than building toilets.

He said that while huge progress had been made, ensuring access to and proper use of these facilities remained a crucial challenge.

“The challenge is not only the number of toilets available but also raising awareness and encouraging their consistent use.

“This is why we are elevating the campaign to a higher level. The Vice President will lead the relaunch of our strategy in a more impactful way,” he said.

He stated that development partners like UNICEF had made significant contributions by providing toilet facilities, training, and awareness campaigns.

“Our partners do not provide funds directly but support through the supply of toilets and training programmes, their efforts have been invaluable in driving this campaign forward,” he said.

The minister also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to achieving ODF status in Nigeria.

He said since the launch of the campaign in 2019, 135 local government areas and over 30,000 communities had achieved ODF status, with more areas undergoing verification.

According to him, despite these achievements, the road to universal sanitation remains long, especially in underserved and vulnerable communities.

“Ending open defecation is about more than toilets, it’s about improving health, boosting productivity, and enhancing the dignity and safety of our citizens,” the minister emphasised.

Utsev called on the media, private sector, and local communities to join the effort to raise awareness and ensure behavioural change at all levels.

He, however, urged renewed and collective action to achieve a cleaner and healthier Nigeria.

“The campaign remains a critical component of Nigeria’s efforts to improve sanitation and public health, with the 2025 ODF target in sight but requiring sustained momentum to achieve,” he said.

On strategic advocacy efforts, the minister said the ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign’ strategy will be relaunched on Nov. 19, coinciding with the World Toilet Day.

“Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead the event, which aims to strengthen collaboration among state governors, community leaders, civil society organisations, and development partners.

“We are calling on governors, community leaders, and partners to actively participate in this campaign,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event is part of activities marking the 2024 World Toilet Day with the theme: ‘Sanitation for Peace,’ which underscores the significance of toilets as symbols of safety, dignity, and development. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Environment

Climate change: Nigeria making progress in energy transition – Onuigbo

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By Uche Anunne

Climate change activist, Sam Onuigbo says Nigeria is making progress in meeting its energy transition efforts.

Onuigbo, who is participating in the ongoing 29th session of the UN Climate Change Conference, CoP29, said this during a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.

The conference is taking place in Baku, Baku, Azerbaijan.

Onuigbo, a former federal lawmaker, said the Climate Change Act which he sponsored as a member of House of Representatives and the establishment of National Council on Climate Change Nigeria, laid a solid foundation for climate change actions.

He is also a member, representing South-East, Governing Board, and Chairman Committee on Security, Climate Change, North-East Development Commission.

He said the Act and the Council provide the legal framework and institution for climate change policy implementation.

The former lawmaker said that the Compressed Natural Gas initiative as an alternative for fossil fuel vehicles by the Bola Tinubu`s administration was a bold step towards energy transition.

Onuigbo said the Electricity Act 2023 was a further impetus to providing cleaner energy.

The Act liberalises the nation’s electricity generation, transmission and distribution at the national level and empowers states, companies and individuals to generate, transmit and distribute electricity.

The Act also permits private investors to obtain generation, transmission and systems operations licenses.

Onuigbo said CoP29 presented an opportunity for Nigeria to boost investment in climate change initiatives.

According to him, Nigeria’s delegation to the conference will market Nigeria’s climate change market to international investors. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Defence/Security

Violent extremism is complex, requires adaptable solutions- UNDP

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By Oladapo Udom

Mr Matthew Alao, the Team Lead, Governance, Peace, and Security Unit, United Nation Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, has described violent extremism as a complex, multifaceted problem that requires equally nuanced and adaptable solutions.

Alao said this at the graduation ceremony of 32 participants of Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) on Countering Violent Extremism.

The Countering Violent Extremism Course 5, 2024, which started on Oct. 26 ended on Nov. 8, at the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA) Lagos.

Participants from Ghana, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, Guinea Bissau, Togo and Liberia took part in the two-week rigorous training.

The team lead called for collaborated efforts from stakeholders to address the challenge, which he said was taking its toll on humanity in general.

He urged the participants to always remember that countering violent extremism was not solely about security measures or law enforcement.

“It is about addressing root causes, fostering inclusive societies, and offering hope where despair once reigned.

“Your role extends beyond tactical responses; you are now architects of resilient communities and advocates for social justice.

“You will face challenges, setbacks and moments of doubt. However, be hopeful; be optimistic because our struggle is not the struggle of a day or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime,” he said.

Alao expressed confidence in the knowledge and skills the participants had acquired, saying that they were not just academic achievements, but the building blocks of resilient communities and sustainable peace.

“Now, you stand ready to return to your respective countries, organisations, and communities as agents of positive change,” the UNDP representative said.

Alao appreciated the Government of Japan, MLAILPKC, the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, and the UNDP for their support which had been instrumental in shaping future leaders.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Maj.-Gen. Farouk Mijinyawa, in his remarks stressed the need for partnership and collective efforts to eradicate violent extremism in the country.

Mijinyawa commended the seamless collaboration between MLAILPKC and the Government of Japan, through the UNDP, which resulted to the approval and conduct of the course.

According to him, the strategic partnership serves as beacon of international cooperation which needs to be sustained.

He quoted former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, as saying that the greatest weapon against extremism is collective action.

“This points to the fact that it is only through partnership and collective efforts that we can eradicate the menace of violent extremism in the world,” he said.

The GOC said that violent extremism had continued to threaten world peace and humanity in general, adding that all stakeholders must unite to counter it by addressing the root causes.

“These include support to education, community engagements and creating economic opportunities.

“The training will help to enhance capacity and equip potential peacekeepers with the requisite expertise to handle threats posed by violent extremism.

“It will also enable them to effectively perform their roles in a multidimensional peacekeeping mission,” he said

One of the participants of the training, Lt.-Col. Thomas Nimele, from the Armed Forces of Liberia, said that the course broadened his knowledge regarding peacekeeping in violent extreme situations.

“The training also gave me insight into the drivers that cause violent extremism and how to use non kinetic measures to win the war.

“Countering violent extremism is a holistic approach involving both government institutions and societal institutions, using non kinetic approach to defeat the ideology of violent extremism,” Nimele said.

Also, Maj. Felix Adongo, from the Ghana Army, said that his take home would be to employ the use of more non kinetic measures in countering the extremist agenda rather than always resulting to force.

“It is important that we tackle this menace from this angle by identifying and getting to the root causes of the extremists ideas and agenda,” Adongo said(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

General News

SDG: NGO trains women’s right organisations 

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By Peter Okolie

Women Environmental Programme (WEP) has trained various women’s rights and grassroots organisations focused on driving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

 

Its Deputy Executive Director, Mr John Baaki, said the training, which held on Thursday in Owerri, aimed to strengthen capacities to develop policies and enhance online visibility.

 

 

Baaki said the workshop was part of WEP’s Women Power 2030 project being implemented in Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

 

 

“The workshop aims to strengthen the capacity of women and feminist civil society networks and organisations to fight inequalities and advance gender-equal sustainable development.

 

 

“The project also aims to ensure that the SDGs are implemented in a sustainable, just and gender-inclusive manner.

 

 

“Our expectation is for them to function better, be able to attract more funding and better contribute to the fight to end gender inequality,” he added.

 

 

In his welcome remarks, the Executive Director, Goodwash Foundation for Health and Environmental Protection, Mr Ikenna Anumnu, lauded WEP, the European Union and Women Power 2030 for organising the workshop.

 

 

Anumnu said the workshop would strengthen organisational policies and visibility, and enhance women’s rights and civil society organisations’ capacity to effectively contribute advocacy to realise the SDGs.

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participants were trained on “Building a strong brand identity for organisations”, “Leveraging digital media for advocacy and awareness” and “Developing relevant policies and processes for organisations.”

 

 

NAN further reports that the participants were drawn from Imo, Rivers, Bayelsa, Enugu, Delta, Abia, Ebonyi, Edo, Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

 

 

One of the facilitators, Mr Ken Ajio, advised the participants to develop a communication strategy and plan for every project and initiative.

 

 

“Adopt a good communication policy, utilise multiple channels, and provide a feedback mechanism for all your internal and external communications,” he advised.

 

 

A participant and Head of the Legal Unit, Sisters With A Goal Initiative (SWAG), Mrs Nkiruka Obisike, commended the organisers and urged them to sustain the training.

 

 

“I learnt about the procedure for formulating organisational policies and how an organisation is run,” she said.

 

 

WEP is a Nigerian NGO working to address gender injustices on issues relating to the environment and economic and social rights of women and young people.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola

General News

Cost of living: UK don seeks sustainable strategies

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By Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigeria needs sustainable strategies by the government and relevant stakeholders to proffer workable solutions to the rising cost of living.

 

Dr Alim Abubakre, Senior Lecturer at Sheffield Business School, London, made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

 

He said that the high cost of living is not peculiar to Nigeria alone, adding that it is a global challenge countries are facing.

 

“Countries like  the UK have experienced sharp inflationary spikes, Sri Lanka faced severe food shortages, and Argentina continues to endure hyperinflation.

 

“As Nigeria embarks on economic reforms, including the reduction of subsidy payment and the flotation of the Naira, these challenges must be mitigated through innovative strategies across the short, medium, and long term,” Abubakre said.

 

He said that part of the short term strategic solution to the challenge was capacity building for leaders to navigate complex economic landscapes as well as innovative approaches to inflation, unemployment and poverty.

 

Abubakre said that the government’s efforts at providing palliatives for quick relief to challenges encountered from its new policies and programmes is in the right direction.

 

“One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through direct cash transfers. A similar initiative in Nigeria, targeted at the poorest households, will offer immediate relief and help prevent households from slipping into deeper poverty.”

 

He said that temporary tax reductions and reduction of import duties on staple foods and essential products would lead to lower retail prices and ease the burden on consumers.

 

“Another immediate intervention is providing subsidies for public transportation. With transport costs constituting a significant portion of household expenses, subsidies can ease commuting costs.

 

“Proper implementation and funding of the conversion and adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for public transport (should continue) with vigour.

 

“The government should make the kits for conversion cheaper by working directly with manufacturers or, better still, encouraging them to start producing locally.”

 

Abubakre also suggested putting price caps on essential medicines and healthcare services to ensure affordability in the short term.

 

He said the South Africa’s Single Exit Price policy for medicines provided an example of how government intervention can keep healthcare accessible for citizens.

 

He also said that expansion of the school feeding programme of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration and establishing community kitchens would support the most affected populations.

 

“This should be negotiated into Corporate Social Responsibility mandates for corporations. The government should minimise direct involvement in such activities to reduce the risk of corruption.”

 

On the medium term solutions, Abubakre said they include boosting of local production, encouraging small and medium enterprises, investment in public transport infrastructure, supporting renewable energy adoption and provision of affordable housing through public and private sector collaboration.

 

The long term strategies, Abubakre said include strong commitment to diversification of the economy, investment in education and skill development, promoting industrialisation and advancing agricultural technology.(NAN)

edited by Sadiya Hamza

Defence/Security

Correctional centres will be places of hope- Tunji-Ojo

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By Kelechi Ogunleye

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, says correctional centres across the country will continue to be places of hope for all categories of inmates.

 

Tunji-Ojo said this at a  Performance Contract Signing Retreat, which had the theme “United Front for a Secure Nation and Future”, on Monday in Abuja.

 

The Minister said that this would be achieved through a positive change in the institutional management of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCOS) for better service delivery.

 

“I will not defend you that you are doing good in terms of institutional management, but we will take responsibility as it must be better.

 

“Our responsibility is to make sure people are treated with dignity as the service serves as the bridge between the weak and strongest.

 

“Whatever you are presenting during this retreat must be based on the premise of rehabilitation, correctional reformation and respect for human rights,” he said.

 

He said he was pleased with the border control measures put in place by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), adding that a lot still needs to be done to improve these measures.

 

“We need a service with better border control, administration and management as there are more undesignated borders than the designated ones,” he said.

 

Tunji-Ojo tasked the NIS to ensure every Nigerian is accounted for at every point in time.

 

He charged the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to strengthen efforts in safeguarding the nation’s Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).

 

“Today we see a lot of vandalism in the power, telecommunications and solid mineral sectors, among others.

 

“There is, therefore, the need for the Corps to be in charge of all CNAI in line with the Act governing its operations,” the Minister said.

 

He said that the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) remains the security identification architecture of the country.

 

Tunji-Ojo, however, said that a lot of measures needed to be taken by the Federal Fire Service to enshrine a culture of effective rescue and firefighting operations.

 

He said that the signing of the performance bond by the heads of parastatal signified a commitment to better service delivery to Nigerians.

 

“Your uniform is a sign of patriotism, loyalty; so let your patriotism be a sign and not just in words.

 

“We will give you all the mentorship and support you need but when you fail, but I hope you will not fail, because failure has repercussions,” Tunji-Ojo said.

 

According to the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, the contracts are a roadmap for the ministry’s vision.

 

“They set measurable targets that will reflect our impact on the nation’s security and well-being. Through these agreements, we are not only signing our names but committing to tangible results,” she said.

 

She charged participants to utilise the retreat as a forum to innovate, strategise and set realistic, achievable and timely key performance indicators.

 

“Our targets must not only be ambitious, but also grounded in the realities of our current security landscape.

 

“It is by aligning our goals and pooling our strengths that we can unlock our full potential and transform the vision of a secured Nigeria into reality,” Ajani said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

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