News Agency of Nigeria
Democracy strong, alive in Nigeria
Features

Democracy strong, alive in Nigeria

Democracy strong, alive in Nigeria

By Bayo Onanuga

We have read the alarming claims of disgruntled opposition figures,  some partisan human rights crusaders and emergency defenders of democracy over recent defections of key members of opposition parties into the governing All Progressives Congress.

 

The seismic shift caused by Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno’s open declaration of support for President Bola Tinubu, the defection of the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, the former vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the last election, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, and the principal political actors in Delta and Rivers States certainly threw the opposition and their sympathisers into disarray.

 

While the opposition elements are understandably heartbroken over the failure of their fabled grand coalition to gain traction, we find it disturbing that they resorted to peddling false allegations of promoting a one-party State against President Bola Tinubu, who is working very hard to reverse decades of economic mismanagement in our country.

 

Contrary to the false claims in the propaganda materials in circulation across mainstream and social media, democracy is not under any threat in Nigeria.

 

Accusations that the administration is moving towards authoritarianism are baseless and exaggerated.

 

We must add that no policy, official action, or directive from the Presidency seeks to “dismantle democracy” or “weaken opposition or create a one-party state.”

 

Accusations of bribery, blackmail, and the weaponisation of state institutions only exist in the idle minds of politicians and their agents who have failed in their assigned role of opposition and are fishing for scapegoats.

 

The opposition cannot blame President Tinubu and the governing APC for their poor organisation, indiscipline, and gross incompetence in managing their affairs. It is certainly not part of President Tinubu’s job to organise or strengthen opposition parties.

 

We find it curious that those who celebrated the defection of the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the formation of a regional grand coalition with the sole aim of defeating President Tinubu in the 2027 election are the same people shedding crocodile tears over Nigeria’s so-called drift to a one-party state and authoritarianism.

 

While the latter-day defenders of democracy raised no anxious voice against the disgruntled politicians cobbling an anti-Tinubu, anti-APC coalition along dangerous regional lines, even before INEC blows the whistle for party politicking, they are quick to ascribe the political shifts in some states to “bribery, blackmail, and coercion” without any shred of evidence.

 

Without any equivocation, freedom of association, freedom of speech and freedom of choice are part of the cherished ideals of democracy.  When politicians and citizens cannot freely join any association or political party of their choice or cannot openly express their views, democracy is imperilled.  Those opposed to the Tinubu administration should understand that they can issue diatribes, without fear, against the government because we practice a thriving democracy.

 

It is hypocrisy writ large when opposition politicians and their collaborators in the ‘human rights’ movement desire that the party of the President should implode so they can gain electoral advantage and cry wolf when their wish does not materialise.

 

We want to state that democracy is not threatened or undermined simply because politicians exercise their rights to freedom of association. Nigerians migrating to the APC and expressing support for Tinubu are doing so out of their free will, based on the belief that the reforms being executed are in the interest of Nigerians and the unborn generation. It is a gross disservice to democracy in itself for these emergency defenders of democracy to delegitimise the political choices of some Nigerians while upholding the choices of others to form a coalition against Tinubu and APC.

 

Under President Tinubu, democracy is strong, and the multiparty democratic system will continue to flourish unhindered. His administration remains resolutely committed to upholding and strengthening the democratic foundations upon which our Fourth Republic has stood since 1999

 

Politicians changing party affiliation is not new or peculiar to Nigeria. In more advanced democracies, there are ready examples of notable politicians, statesmen and women who changed their parties.

 

President Tinubu and the National Working Committee of the APC, under the leadership of Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, deserve commendation for making the ruling party viable and attractive to all Nigerians willing to participate in the democratic process.

 

President Tinubu is an avowed democrat and a firm believer in multiparty democracy. His political activism and democratic credentials in galvanising and strengthening opposition platforms as a force that defeated a sitting President and the then ruling party attest to his credibility as a tested defender of multiparty democracy.

 

We urge all Nigerians to join hands with the administration in protecting our democracy by respecting our people’s choices and giving alarmists, who draw their narratives from the pool of fiction, a wide berth.

 

Onanuga is the Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy)

FG reforms have improved Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook – Report
Foreign

FG reforms have improved Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook – Report

 

By Nana Musa

Mr Jason Wu, Assistant Director for Global Markets, International Monetary Fund (IMF), said that the recent government reforms had improved Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook.

 

Wu said this at the ongoing IMF/World Bank 2025 Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, during the release of the agency’s Global Financial Stability report for April 2205.

 

He said that the reforms had simultaneously lowered Nigeria sovereign credit profile, while adding that the country remained exposed to financial volatility and weakening global risk appetite.

 

“Nigeria’s sovereign spread has widened in recent weeks as global stock markets decline.

 

“For major commodity exporters like Nigeria, if trade tensions continue to dampen global demand, revenue shortfalls are likely.

 

“Authorities must stay vigilant and adopt the right policies to respond,” Wu said.

 

The IMF’s Global Financial Stability Report (GFSR) highlighted Nigeria’s return to the international debt market in late 2024 with its first Eurobond issuance since 2022.

 

This marked a positive shift in investor sentiment toward frontier markets, buoyed by macroeconomic reforms and improved credit ratings.

 

He quoted the report, saying “Sovereign eurobond spreads for frontier economies narrowed in 2024 and early 2025, helped by fiscal reforms, progress in debt restructuring, and foreign exchange policy adjustments.”

 

Examples cited include debt restructuring in Ethiopia and Ghana, and Nigeria’s forex market reforms.

 

“Frontier economies were able to issue foreign currency debt at relatively modest yields,” the report noted.

 

It added that the total issuance in first quarter of 2025 was roughly half of the total for 2024.

 

The report said, “Nigeria returned to the eurobond market in late 2024 for the first time since 2022, while Egypt re-entered in January 2025.”

 

It also revealed that Angola secured foreign currency financing through a total return swap with an international bank, while Côte d’Ivoire accounted for the largest eurobond issuance in Africa during first quarter.

 

Regionally, economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa is also projected to ease slightly to 3.8 per cent in 2025, before rebounding to 4.2 per cent in 2026.

 

The nation’s growth, however, is expected to remain below the regional average.

 

“For Sub-Saharan Africa, growth is projected to decline from 4.0 per cent in 2024 to 3.8 per cent in 2025, before modestly recovering to 4.2 per cent in 2026.

 

“Among major economies, Nigeria’s forecast was downgraded by 0.2 percentage points for 2025 and 0.3 for 2026, due to falling oil prices.

 

“South Africa saw a 0.5-point downgrade for 2025 and 0.3 for 2026, citing weak 2024 performance and deteriorating sentiment,” the report said.

 

Also, South Sudan recorded the sharpest downgrade, with its 2025 forecast slashed by 31.5 percentage points due to delays in restarting oil production through a damaged pipeline.

 

On a positive note, Nigeria’s current account balance is expected to remain in surplus, however, declinin from 9.1 per cent of GDP in 2024 to 6.9 per cent in 2025, and 5.2 per cent in 2026.

 

This surplus could offer a degree of protection against external economic shocks. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

IMF projects 3% economic growth for Nigeria
Foreign

IMF projects 3% economic growth for Nigeria

 

By Nana Musa

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released it new economic outlook report, reversing Nigeria’s economic growth projections for 2025 and 2026.

 

The April report was released on Tuesday during World Economic Outlook (WEO) at a press briefing at the ongoing IMF/World Bank 2025 Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C.

 

The report cut the forecast for Nigeria’s growth to 3.0 per cent for 2025 and 2.7 per cent for 2026, from the 3.2 per cent and 3.0 per cent projection earlier stated in the January WEO update.

 

The IMF report cited mounting global uncertainties and sustained weakness in oil prices.

 

According to the report, the IMF places the growing probability of a global recession at 40 per cent compared to previous 25 per cent estimation it released in October 2024.

 

The IMF attributed the downward revision of the the growth to a combination of domestic economic challenges and worsening global conditions.

 

It said this includes trade tensions, reduced demand from advanced economies, and a significant drop in crude oil prices.

 

In the report, the Fund warned that without strong policy responses, Nigeria might find it difficult to maintain macroeconomic stability amid external headwinds.

 

The IMF Economic Counsellor and Director of Research Department, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, said that emerging economies like Nigeria were particularly vulnerable due to their integration into global supply chains.

 

“The uncertainty is discouraging investment and activity, and these countries are suffering from declining demand for their exports,” Gourinchas said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigeria delegation attends IMF Spring Meeting
Economy/Business

Nigeria delegation attends IMF Spring Meeting

By Nana Musa

Mr Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economy has led the Nigeria’s delegation to the 2025 International Monetary Fund (IMF) Spring Meeting holding in Washington DC.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting, holding from April 21 to April 26 in the US capital, is being attended by delegations from 190 countries.

 

In the Nigeria’s delegation are Chief Executive Officers of financial institutions, representatives of the private sector, Civil Society Organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations and other stakeholders.

 

The meeting aimed at promoting global macroeconomics financial stability, along IMF’s long-standing mission would provide policy advice, surveillance of member countries’ economies, and financial assistance to countries facing balance-of-payments issues.

 

The meetings will focus on building a better balanced and more resilient world economy that can better withstand economic shocks and promote sustainable development.

 

The specific activities of the meeting also include analysing the world economy, holding bilateral consultations with member countries, and providing support to countries navigating economic challenges.

 

It will also discuss the global economic outlook, global financial stability, and poverty eradication

 

At the meeting, the IMF is also expected to release its World Economic Outlook and Global Financial Stability Report.

 

The World Economic Outlook will provide analysis and projections of the global economy, the global financial stability report, assess the global financial system and highlight systemic issues.

 

The meetings will also discuss the need for reforms to the global financial architecture to support developing countries as well as poverty eradication and inclusive economic growth

 

Other key area of discussion at the meeting is how to address the economic impacts of climate change on the nations.

 

NAN reports that IMF and the World Bank are two intergovernmental organisations, often referred to as the Bretton Woods Institutions that were established in 1944 to rebuild the global economy after World War II.

 

While the IMF focuses on maintaining the stability of the international monetary system, the World Bank aims to reduce poverty and promote development in developing countries..

 

The IMF also acts like a financial policeman, ensuring the global financial system functions smoothly, while the World Bank is like a development banker, helping countries invest in their future

 

Specifically, the IMF conducts economic surveillance, both at the national and global levels to monitor the health of its 190 member countries.

 

The IMF provides loan to member-countries struggling with a balance of payments crisis and offers advice on how to improve the their financial regulations

 

The World Bank on its part, focuses on reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development in developing countries.

 

It lends money to developing countries for development projects, provides policy advice and technical assistance, and promotes knowledge sharing and innovation to help countries tackle development challenges. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

.84bn balance of payment surplus, indication of economic stability – TDF
Economy/Business

$6.84bn balance of payment surplus, indication of economic stability – TDF

By Salif Atojoko

The Democratic Front (TDF) says the 6.84 billion dollars balance of payment surplus in 2024 is another indication of economic prosperity under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Malam Danjuma Muhammad, Chairman of TDF, in a statement on Monday said the development would boost investors’ confidence in the country.

“In addition to increasing the country’s foreign exchange reserve, improving the nation’s creditworthiness, and enhancing monetary policy flexibility in the economy, the balance of payment surplus will significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependency on foreign exchange to the benefit of local productivity.

“We believe that the combination of fiscal reforms in the macroeconomic system, which has enhanced the Federal Government’s revenue generation capacity, and monetary policy reforms introduced by the CBN, have boosted confidence in the Nigerian economy.

“These have encouraged import substitution in economic trades to conserve foreign capital for local economic growth,” said TDF.

The group said it was confident that this economic feat would inevitably lead to a reduction in headline inflation and also trigger an increase in production that would generate wealth and employment for Nigerians.

“We recall that for decades, the history of Nigeria’s economy was replete with over-dependence on foreign exchange for local and international trades, which impeded sustainable growth.

“This instituted a trajectory of consistent deficit in the balance of payment, and put pressure on the dollar to the detriment of the local currency and our macro economy,” said TDF.

It, however, said the Nigerian economy had responded positively to the pro-market and the private sector-friendly reforms of the Tinubu administration, as evident in the increased use of Naira for major trades, and exploring opportunities for import substitution.

“This policy has provided an incentive for Nigeria to export refined petroleum products to the United States, Saudi Arabia and other parts of the world through the Dangote Refinery, which began production under the Tinubu administration.

“It is heartening to also note that the posting of 6.84 billion dollars surplus in the balance of payment, is an indication of sustainable economic growth and stability and a show of strength to resist global economic shocks and headwinds,” the group added.

The group said the trade surplus underscored the need for the continuous implementation of the bold and pragmatic economic policies of the administration.

It said this was the only viable route to increasing the country’s foreign exchange reserves, service external debt, finance domestic investments, increase national savings, respond to internal economic challenges, and also stimulate economic growth and productivity.

It said it was optimistic that it would inevitably lead to more jobs and a plethora of trade opportunities for Nigerians in the coming months.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Easter: FG declares Friday, Monday public holidays
Defence/Security

Easter: FG declares Friday, Monday public holidays

By Kelechi Ogunleye

The Federal Government has declared April 18th and 21st as public holidays to enable Christians celebrate Easter.

 

This is contained in a statement by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs Magdalene Ajani, on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

Ajani said that the public holidays were to mark the celebrations of Good Friday and Easter Monday, respectively.

 

She acknowledged that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo extended his heartfelt congratulations to Christians across the country on the joyous festivities.

 

Tunji-Ojo  emphasised the importance of embodying the virtues of the sacrifice and love displayed by Jesus Christ, having to die for the redemption of man.

 

He called on Nigerians to use the holiday period to pray for the peace, unity, and stability of the nation.

 

The minister further reassured citizens of President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to foster national growth and development.

 

Tunji-Ojo encouraged Nigerians to extend love and goodwill to their neighbours through acts of kindness and generosity.

 

The Minister wished all Christians a blissful Easter celebration as he extended warm holiday greetings to all citizens.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Is Neighbourhood watch the missing link in Nigeria’s security strategy?
Features

Is Neighbourhood watch the missing link in Nigeria’s security strategy?

By Ismail Abdulaziz, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Insecurity in Nigeria has evolved into a national crisis, touching nearly every part of the country.

From the Maitatsine riots of the early 1980s to the enduring Boko Haram insurgency, the nation’s security challenges have deepened, albeit successive efforts to curb them.

As traditional military solutions yield limited results, stakeholders are calling for alternative, community-led approaches.

One of such is the implementation of a neighbourhood watch programme.

Nigeria’s descent into widespread insecurity can be traced back to the Maitatsine uprising in Kano state during the Second Republic under President Shehu Shagari.

At the time, the violence was seen as a temporary phase of unrest under a young democratic government.

However, the emergence of Boko Haram in 2009 marked the beginning of a more entrenched conflict.

Originating in the North-East, the insurgency has since spilled into other regions, evolving into a prolonged armed struggle and humanitarian crisis.

It has destabilised the Lake Chad region, with repercussions felt in Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.

According to a 2025 report by the Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, the activities of various armed groups; including bandits and kidnappers are closely tied to the Boko Haram conflict.

The report reflects that since 2011, persistent violence between herders and farmers; mainly over access to scarce resources, has escalated in central and north-western Nigeria.

These groups have committed numerous atrocities, including murder, rape, kidnapping, and organised cattle rustling.

Also, large areas of farmland have been seized by armed bandits, leaving many farmers too fearful to cultivate their land.

In response, the Nigerian government has launched several initiatives to push back against these non-state actors and protect the rights of citizens.

Yet, the impact of these efforts remains limited.

In recent years, some analysts have advocated for a more balanced strategy that includes both kinetic (military) and non-kinetic (non-violent) approaches.

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has been at the forefront of this shift, promoting policies that focus on addressing the root causes of insecurity.

Non-kinetic measures aim to promote long-term peace through education, community engagement, and social development rather than direct confrontation.

In spite of these efforts, tangible progress remains elusive.

A lack of widespread awareness, public education, and behavioural change continues to hamper results.

Disturbing incidents circulating on social media, such as a boy being brutally flogged by his tutor in Maiduguri, the alleged abuse of a pupil by a teacher in Lagos, and the cruel treatment of a widow by her in-laws in Enugu reveal a broader societal issue.

These acts show a troubling disregard for the consequences of individual actions.

This pattern of indifference is visible across homes, workplaces, public services, and even within the armed forces.

As one analyst aptly asked, “Can we afford to continue like this? What is the implication of our actions on national security? Are we heading towards a society where only the strongest survive?”

Malam Garba Ibrahim, a civil servant, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that when they were growing up, there was a fear of being watched at all times.

He said it was easier to follow the rules because one is not sure if the lunatic on the street is a security agent.

This sentiment resonates with many Nigerians in their 40s and 50s, who recall a time when discipline and communal responsibility were more ingrained in daily life.

Therefore, some security experts are calling for a comprehensive neighbourhood watch programme.

With the vast youth population in the country, the neighbourhood watch programme has been suggested as part of a non-kinetic approach to tackling insecurity.

A neighbourhood watch security programme is a community initiative focused on reducing crime and anti-social behaviours through increased vigilance and collaboration between residents and local law enforcement.

It encourages neighbours and communities to be aware of suspicious activity, report it promptly, and work together to create a safer environment.

Some key aspects of a neighbourhood watch programme include increased awareness by residents to be more observant and aware of potential threats in their neighbourhood.

It also encourages the reporting of suspicious activities to relevant authorities through training, while fostering a sense of community and encouraging residents to work together to improve safety.

How does this neighbourhood watch work and organise itself?

It involves residents organising into groups to oversee their neighbourhood security.

Participants receive training on suspicious activity, reporting procedures, and crime prevention techniques.

The groups also communicate with each other, residents, and law enforcement to share information and coordinate efforts.

It also involves active surveillance, such as neighbourhood patrols or citizen monitoring of public areas and working with the police to enhance community safety and address local crime issues.

Some analysts have proposed the use of social media in the employment of the neighbourhood watch programme.

They say deliberate training by the government on the positive use of social media by citizens would help, not only in checking the rate of crime, but nip it in the bud quickly.

The recent proposal by the Federal Government to review the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) can be streamlined to accommodate this factor of a non-kinetic approach.

Some suggest that the personnel of the civil service are experienced enough to be engaged to tackle insecurity because they only need to be given schedules to follow.

Others agree that retired armed forces personnel are also veritable tools for keeping the peace because their training and years of service can match those of the non-state actors causing havoc across the country.

One fact security experts agree on is that the number of security personnel employed to handle the various security challenges in the country are not adequate for the task.

Involving every capable Nigerian will serve as a way forward in making everybody to “see something” and “say something”.

Neighbourhood security programme has several successes, including deterring crime, boosting neighbourhood awareness, building stronger bonds between neighbours, and improving the overall sense of security.

These programmes can also lead to more effective reporting of crimes and better communication between residents and law enforcement agencies. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

JP Morgan’s Nigerian branch, endorsement of Tinubu’s reforms – TSF
Metro

JP Morgan’s Nigerian branch, endorsement of Tinubu’s reforms – TSF

By Salif Atojoko

The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has welcomed plans by JP Morgan, an American banking group, to upgrade its Nigeria representative office into a fully operational business branch.

Malam Danjuma Muhammad, Chairman of TSF, in a statement on Monday, described it as a global endorsement of the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu.

“According to a recent report by Africa Intelligence, the move is in line with the strategic vision of JP Morgan’s Chief Executive Officer, Jamie Dimon, to deepen the bank’s footprint in Africa, particularly in thriving economies like Nigeria.

“The development is a strong vote of confidence on the Nigerian economy and the robust reform agenda of the Tinubu administration, especially in the areas of monetary policy, ease of doing business, and financial market liberalisation.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that J.P. Morgan plans to open a fully operational business branch in Lagos, by converting its existing representative office into a fully-fledged business branch.

It has been present in Lagos since the 1980s, indicating a long-term commitment to the Nigerian market. 

The group said JP Morgan’s decision to apply for a merchant banking licence from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s financial sector.

It said this positioned the country to benefit from global capital flows, attract more institutional investments, and facilitate improved access to foreign exchange loans and sophisticated asset management services for Nigerian corporate citizens.

“As one of the world’s most influential financial institutions, JP Morgan’s expansion into full business operations in Nigeria sends a powerful signal to other global investors that Nigeria is open for business.

“The upgrade will not only strengthen the financial services ecosystem, but will create job opportunities, increase the CBN’s non-oil revenue through licensing and regulatory fees, and drive down the cost of foreign currency-denominated funding for local businesses.

“We at TSF believe that this milestone is the outcome of President Tinubu’s bold leadership and deliberate policies to stabilise the economy, attract foreign direct investment, and reposition Nigeria as the financial hub of Africa,” the group stated.

It also expressed confidence that the development would catalyse similar decisions by other global financial and investment institutions, leading to a virtuous cycle of economic growth and renewed investor confidence in Nigeria.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigerian Union in South Africa inaugurates executives
General News

Nigerian Union in South Africa inaugurates executives

Inauguration
The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) is to inaugurate its Presidential and National Executives on Saturday.

A statement issued by the apex body of Nigerians in South Africa said the forum is themed: “Uniting Nigerians in South Africa.”

It said the theme aligned with NUSA’s core objectives of promoting unity among Nigerians living in South Africa.

The body said the objectives also included supporting growth in trade and commerce as well as fostering stronger relationships between Nigerians and South Africans.

It added that the forum would feature the official launch of The Migrant Magazine.

” The launch of The Migrant Magazine further demonstrates our commitment to informing, connecting, and empowering the Nigerian community in South Africa,” it said.

The statement also said the occasion billed for Sandton, Johannesburg, “represents a pivotal moment in NUSA’s journey to strengthen the bonds within the Nigerian community.”

The forum , it added, would amplify the voices of Nigerian migrants in South Africa.

Established in 2008, NUSA is a not-for-profit association dedicated to representing the interests of Nigerians in South Africa.

The organisation operates across all nine provinces and focuses on building a thriving community that promotes and supports its members’ strengths positively.

The new leadership is expected to continue NUSA’s tradition of providing legal support,advocacy, educational opportunities, and cultural promotion for Nigerians living in South Africa.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail abdulaziz

Minister wants collective action to empower young women
Defence/Security

Minister wants collective action to empower young women

 

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, on Thursday called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to empower young women and advance national development.

 

Sulaiman-Ibrahim made the call in Abuja at the opening ceremony of a three-day royal ambassadors gathering week 2025 with the theme, “Building Global Partnership for sustainable impacts, Innovations and development.”

 

The minister, who was represented by a  Director in the Ministry , Dr Mrs Ola Erinfolami, emphasised that empowering young women remained critical to the nation’s growth and progress.

 

She acknowledged the ministry’s achievements in promoting gender equality, development and peace, noting that more work must be done to close existing gaps.

 

“Young women continue to face challenges in education, economic opportunities, healthcare and leadership.

 

“It is our responsibility to address these disparities and create an enabling environment for women to thrive,” she said.

 

The minister, however, outlined four key areas of focus in the ministry’s agenda to include access to quality education and skills training, supporting entrepreneurship and job creation.

 

This, she also said, includes ensuring healthcare access, promoting well-being and encouraging women’s participation in leadership and decision-making.

 

She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting policies and programmes that empowered young women, adding that collaboration with stakeholders remained vital.

 

“I urge all stakeholders to join us in this effort. Let’s work together to empower more young women and create a brighter future for our nation,” she added.

 

In his opening remarks, the Founder and Director-General of the Royal Ambassadors Family Enlightenment Foundation (RAFEF), Jonathan Okwudiri, called for stronger global partnerships to drive sustainable development and innovation in Nigeria.

 

Okwudiri, who doubled as the convener of the event stressed that unity, collaboration and collective action were crucial in achieving national progress.

 

He said that in a world where challenges like poverty, unemployment, food insecurity and social inequality threatened the collective future, the need for action had never been greater.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the RAFEF, Green Revolution Farmers Feed the Nation Foundation (GRFFNF), and Young Women Rise Empowerment Initiative (YWREI) are the three NGOs working to reshape the society.

 

These are done through strategic empowerment, economic development and social transformation.

 

The groups are also dedicated to poverty eradication (SDG 1), quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and zero hunger (SDG 2).

 

Okwudiri, who oversees a network of over one million women and youths across the 36 states and the FCT, said that the NGO was a formidable force dedicated to nation-building through empowerment, agriculture, and youth development.

 

He announced the launch of major initiatives under the GRFFNF, including Operation Feed the Nation, inaugurated in December 2024, and the Green Rewards Smart Farm Settlement (GRSFS), aimed at providing employment opportunities for one million Nigerians.

 

He said that the group’s Agricultural Farming Project Fund and Empowerment Scheme would provide financial grants to farmers to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

 

“This gathering is a testament to the power of collaboration. As Royal Ambassadors, we are determined to work with visionary partners to create lasting impacts,” he said.

 

Okwudiri also highlighted the achievements of the RAFEF in training over 1,000 women and youths in entrepreneurial skills, seeking partnerships and support to enable the trainees to start their businesses.

 

He reiterated the organisation’s readiness to align with President Bola Tinubu’s administration policy, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focused on promoting agricultural development, food security, and job creation.

 

“As nation-builders, we support any leader who prioritises the empowerment of women and youth. Together, we can shape the future of our country,” Okwudiri said.

 

Okwudiri commended the Board of Trustees, management teams, and the media for their contributions to the growth of the organisations and urged participants to use the gathering to connect, learn, and collaborate.

 

“We are not just here to celebrate; we are here to build. Let us rise to the challenge and create the future we envision,” he said.

 

The event also features the inauguration of the National and State Executive Officers of the Young Women Rise Empowerment and Support Initiative (YWRESI) and the crowning of Miss Global Royalty Africa 2025.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka and Yakubu Uba

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