NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Economy/Business

NBS commits to sustained collaboration with media, CSOs

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says it is committed to sustained collaboration with the media and civil society for effective communication of statistical data.

Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician-General of the Federation and CEO of the NBS said this at a Retreat for Journalists and Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) in Keffi on Friday.

Adeniran, who was represented by Dr Biyi Fafunmi, Director, Agric and Business Enterprise, NBS, said the media and CSOs played an indispensable role in national statistics production.

He said the media and CSOs served as a bridge between statistical agencies and the public.

Adeniran said the media served as both facilitators and disseminators, influencing the way statistical information was collected, interpreted, and communicated to the public.

“In reporting, we recognise you as a partner in progress; we urge you to be objective and patriotic in reporting our data as disseminated by NBS.

“By facilitating communication, promoting understanding, and fostering accountability, the media not only enhance the credibility and relevance of national statistics but also empower citizens to appraise more meaningfully with the data that shape their lives.

“As technology and media landscapes continue to evolve, the role of media in this context will continue to expand.

“This will require ongoing collaboration between NBS, the media, and innovation to ensure effective communication of statistical data for planning and development on sustainable bases”.

Adeniran commended the media and CSOs for their role in making NBS improve in data deliverables in spite of the challenges they encountered in their daily endeavours.

Mr Joel Ichedi, the Bureau’s Director of Communication and Public Relations, said the objective of the retreat was to equip journalists and CSOs with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate statistics to the public.

“We recognise that the media and civil society play a critical role in shaping public discourse and holding institutions accountable.

“However, we also acknowledge that reporting on statistics can be complex and nuanced.

“This retreat aims to bridge the gap between data producers and data users, ensuring that statistical information is accurately conveyed to the public.

”Our team of experts will provide insights into the latest developments in statistics production, data sources, and methodologies”.

Ichedi emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure statistical information was presented concisely and without bias, thus avoiding misinformation and enhancing public understanding.

Ewache Ajefu, Editor, Business Africa who spoke on behalf of the media, thanked the NBS for organising the retreat, adding that it should be sustained.

Johnny Emmanuel, National President, National Council for CSOs,  commended the NBS on its role in improving the economy and the country through its production of accurate and timely data.

Emmanuel stressed the need for collaboration between the media and civil society noting that CSOs could not achieve their mandate without the media.

NAN reports that there was a business session on Trends in  Development Journalism, Consumer Price Index and GDP Rebasing Update, and Compilation of Trade Statistics.

Other sessions include Methodology for Generating Labor Force Statistics in NBS and A Critical Appraisal of Statistical Reporting and Data Interpretation by Journalists. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Foreign

5m Nigerian farmers benefit from U.S.-Nigeria agric partnership– Embassy

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By Mark Longyen

The U.S. government says it has supported more than 5 million Nigerian farmers in its multifaceted agricultural partnership programmes with Nigeria since 2019 through its agency for international development (USAID).  

The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, adding that the partnership has helped strengthen Nigeria’s food security by increasing food production and bolstering rural economies nationwide. 

It noted that media coverage of its activities had presented an inaccurate picture of U.S. agricultural initiatives in Nigeria, which included assisting local agencies in strengthening regulatory processes for agricultural biotechnology. 

It said the longstanding agricultural partnership with Nigeria culminated in significant achievements and ensured that all U.S. government agricultural programmes operated with full transparency and strict adherence to Nigerian laws.

“These programmes are developed and implemented in partnership with Nigerian agricultural experts, farmers, and government officials, to ensure they meet local needs and respect Nigeria’s agricultural sovereignty. 

“USAID’s work in Nigeria focuses on practical support for farmers, including improved access to markets, agricultural training, and research collaboration. 

“Our agricultural partnership represents a shared commitment to addressing Nigeria’s food security challenges through locally-driven solutions,” the embassy indicated in the statement.

The U.S. government stated that USAID maintains regular dialogue with Nigerian stakeholders in agriculture at all levels, and is proud to support Nigerian farmers while respecting local agricultural traditions and practices. 

“As we continue this partnership, we remain committed to full transparency and meaningful consultation with Nigerian agricultural communities,” it added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Culture & Tourism

Partnership, collective efforts needed to eradicate violent extremism -GOC

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

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

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 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.

Mijinyawa commended the seamless collaboration between MLAILPKC and the Government of Japan, through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which resulted to the approval and conduct of the course.

According to him, the strategic partnership between the Centre and the Government of Japan through the UNDP 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

He expressed satisfaction with the caliber of erudite resource persons, facilitators and experts that were invited from both within and outside the country to make presentations during the course.

“We appreciate you for the knowledge you have imparted and for sharing from your wealth of experiences.

“I urge the graduands to apply the knowledge gained from this course in the discharge of their responsibilities in their various formations, units and organisations,” he said.

Mijinyawa commended the collaboration of the Government of Japan, and the UNDP with MLAILPKC which continued to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Africa and the world at large.

Mr Matthew Alao, Team Lead, Governance, Peace, and Security Unit, UNDP Nigeria, said that violent extremism was a complex, multifaceted problem that required equally nuanced and adaptable solutions.

“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.

“Your training equips you to be the architects of this justice; to build bridges where others see only divides, and to illuminate paths towards reconciliation in the darkest corners of conflict.

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

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,” he 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.

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)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Foreign

Macron unveils plans for triangular partnership in Africa

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By Usman Aliyu

French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled plans for a triangular partnership between France, Morocco and Africa to foster cooperation in key sectors for growth, stability and development.

 

Macron announced this on Tuesday in Rabat while addressing a joint session of the two Houses of the Moroccan parliament.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the address formed part of the activities of the French president’s 3-day visit to the Northern African country.

 

He said the France, Morocco and Africa partnership would be premise in the areas of education, agriculture, ecological projects, digital technology and energy.

 

Macron stressed the importance of the Moroccan-French partnership in Africa, underlining the vision of the Moroccan King, Mohammed VI for the continent.

 

“Morocco, by virtue of its geography, its history, its culture and the vision of its Sovereigns, has long affirmed its vocation as a platform, a channel, a singular path,” Macron said.

 

This, he said, underlined that the Kingdom’s stability, openness and development “are unrivaled assets which we recognise at their true value and which can inspire many joint initiatives.”

 

Speaking on the Moroccan-Western Sahara issue, Macron reiterated the support of Paris for Morocco sovereignty over the contentious region.

 

“For France, the present and future of this territory lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty. The Autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the framework within which this issue must be resolved.

 

“The 2007 autonomy plan constitutes the only basis for achieving a just, lasting and negotiated political solution in line with the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council,” he said.

 

He said that the Paris position was rooted in history, respectful of realities and promising for the future, and the one that France would implement to support Morocco at international forums.

 

Turning to the situation in the Middle East, Macron paid tribute to the action of King Mohammed VI for providing urgent humanitarian aid to the Palestinian and Lebanese populations.

 

“I salute his mobilisation and that of all Morocco in favour of de-escalation, resumption of dialogue and the relaunch of a credible political process.

 

“In the current cacophony, in which extremes on all sides are indulging, Morocco has a strong and singular voice,” he said

 

Macron said Morocco and France were now destined to lay the foundations for a reinforced exceptional partnership, and to offer the generations of the next 25 years a new vision.

 

“At a time when His Majesty King Mohammed VI and I decided to write a new book together, I want to share with you that I am certain that these ties will continue to grow ever stronger,” he said.

 

He lauded the values of diversity, dialogue and tolerance, adding that it remains at the heart of the Morocco’s people, its institutions and Constitution.

 

“The tolerant Islam promoted by His Majesty the King, Commander of the Faithful, challenges all forms of extremism,” he said.

 

Macron added that Morocco’s wealth “is even more precious and worthy of respect at a time when our world is torn apart by intolerance and war.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Foreign

Morocco, France sign historic partnership deal

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By Usman Aliyu

The Kingdom of Morocco and the French Republic on Monday signed a landmark “Reinforced Exceptional Partnership” declaration to significantly bolster bilateral relations.

 

The two countries signed the agreement during a 3-day official visit to Morocco by the French President Emmanuel Macron.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that while Macron signed for France, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI signed on behalf of his country.

 

The partnership, according to the Moroccan government, will strengthen long-standing historical, cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

 

The government said the bilateral deal reaffirmed the mutual cooperation and strategic autonomy.

 

Key provisions include fostering exceptional relations, establishing a comprehensive strategic framework and adhering to principles of state-to-state relations, sovereign equality and non-interference.

 

“The profound relations between the two countries are rooted in history and exceptionally rich human and cultural ties which have underpinned the friendship and cooperation for several decades.

 

“The leaders also reaffirmed that their countries’ joint action, both bilaterally and internationally, would continue to rest on the principles of state-to-state relation, sovereign equality, non-interference in internal affairs and foreign policy decisions, among others.

 

“Both nations emphasised their commitment to directing the ‘reinforced exceptional partnership’ toward three major goals that include consolidating political and strategic convergence.

 

“Others included deepening and modernising partnerships to promote economic development, social cohesion and strategic autonomy.

 

“Another goal is the strengthening of privileged cooperation in human ties, human capital and culture rooted in a Francophonie of values and openness,” the government said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN), reports that the two heads of state welcomed the ambitious cooperation that they had established and strengthened in migration, and called for the building of a comprehensive agenda in that regard.

 

They also agreed to directly oversee the “reinforced exceptional partnership” between them. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ephraims Sheyin

Economy/Business

Media critical stakeholder in data production- Statistician-General

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Statistician-General of the Federation, Adeyemi Adeniran, says the media plays a critical role in the production of data in Nigeria.

Adeniran said this at a Dialogue with Editors on the: “Rebasing of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the Nigeria Living Standards Survey (NLSS)” in Abuja on Thursday.

He said the media’s understanding of the data production process would ensure adequate and effective reportage of the statistics published by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Adeniran said the dialogue was organised to ensure that the routine yet important statistical exercises were fully understood and utilised to enhance public knowledge, inform policy, and improve overall economic governance in Nigeria.

“As critical partners in the data production process, we want the media to become a strong voice and advocate of the work you see going on in the Bureau and within the Statistical System in the country.

“We want your reportage to be accurate, objective, and sound, to help build the confidence and trust of the public in what we do.

“In so doing, the output of the process will reflect an accurate picture of living conditions and the state of the economy in Nigeria.

“It will also enhance the understanding of emerging sectors and economic activities, and satisfy the needs of all users of the data.

“For NBS, we see these engagements as a necessary aspect of the data production process.”

Adeniran said one of the United Nations fundamental principles of official statistics was accountability and transparency, and the dialogue was one way the NBS ensured that the processes were open and transparent.

He said this would help promote and enhance the credibility of the system and build confidence in what the NBS was doing.

“It is also another way of ensuring inclusivity, promoting collaboration, and engendering partnership throughout the process of these exercises, and the NBS’s wider data production.”

The statistician-general said the NBS on its path, would continue to remain objective, open, transparent, professional and not emotional in carrying out its mandate.

“The work we do in the NBS is very sensitive, it goes beyond producing data to show the feelings of the people because that is the only way the government can plan and come up with effective policies.”

He said it would be wrong for the bureau to give the government false data because it would be of no help to both the government and the citizens.

“Therefore, the notion that we produce data to favour the government in power should not arise because it would be counterproductive.

“Our results do not favour any government because they are routine surveys carried out before any particular government comes into power.

“We publish only whatever the data says. So it is important to explain and dialogue so you can understand the process to report accurately and objectively.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the dialogue was attended by chief executives and editors of various media organisations. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng )

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Economy/Business

FCT-IRS partners NFIU to enhance tax compliance, revenue generation

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By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS), has solicited a robust partnership with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), to enhance tax compliance and boost revenue collection in the FCT.

The acting Executive Chairman of the service, Mr Michael Ango sought the partnership when he visited the Chief Executive Officer of NFIU, Hajiya Hafsat Abubakar on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ango described NFIU as one of the strategic stakeholders of FCT-IRS and stressed the need to strengthen existing collaboration for mutual benefits of the two organisations.

He explained that the visit was part of the service’s engagement with key stakeholders to solicit for support and cooperation.

The goal, according to him, is to enhance revenue collection and tax administration in the FCT.

The acting chairman, who acknowledged the existing partnership between the two organisations, said that the move was to strengthen the partnership for better results and progress of FCT.

“Coming together to share ideas, data and information between FCT-IRS and NFIU will help in no small measure, in facilitating improved operations for better results,” Ango said.

Responding, NFIU boss expressed confidence in Ango’s capacity to take FCT-IRS to greater heights and entrenched efficiency, effectiveness and integrity in revenue generation.

Abubakar said that NFIU was willing to tap from the experience and knowledge of the FCT-IRS boss in law, taxation and other areas of expertise to further enhance their operations.

She explained that NFIU recognises tax crimes, particularly tax evasion as a serious offence, adding that it denies the government the resources it needs to invest in infrastructure and other development projects.

“I am pleased that the FCT-IRS is one of our first and indeed our most effective partners in this regard.

“The relationship we established with your office serves as a groundbreaking model and we are now working with about 24 other state revenue services.

“We believe our efforts are making a significant contribution to domestic revenue mobilisation across the federation” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal

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