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Author: Fortune Abang

  • IDPs: UN body seeks revalidation of National Action Plan

    IDPs: UN body seeks revalidation of National Action Plan

    Revalidation

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The UN International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has underscored the need for revalidation of the National Action Plan (NAP) to tackle issues affecting Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria.

    Mr Laurent De Boeck, Chief of IOM Mission in Nigeria disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja at the 7th National Humanitarian Coordination Technical Working Group (NHCTWG) meeting to revalidate the NAP on IDPs in Nigeria.

    The event was organised with support of the Swiss government, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and in close coordination with IOM and WFP.

    Boeck, represented by Daniel Salmon, Head of Policy Governance Liaison and Support of IOM, described the national policy on IDPs as a dynamic framework designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective coordination of humanitarian responses to IDPs.

    According to him, the NAP undergoes regular joint reviews to adapt to evolving contexts and ensure continuous improvement, through inclusive and democratic processes.

    “What has been fantastic is the process of people from different parts of Nigeria, from the civil society, governments or international partners all coming together, to discuss the critical matters of internal displacement in Nigeria.

    ”There is over about 3-million IDPs in Nigeria. This document provides us roadmap to go beyond purely humanitarian assistance and look at how to constructively develop sustainable pathways for internal displacement.

    “It sets out the obligations and responsibilities of each government entity under the national policy and relevant benchmarks, timelines and indicators to facilitate monitoring accountability.

    “This document identifies the budgetary requirements for implementation of the national policy to enable necessary allocation and resources of the fund as a result of the collaborative and inclusive process.

    “This involved input and feedback of various stakeholders, including line ministries, institutions, state authorities, UN agency, NGOs and displaced communities through technical working group meetings, bilateral consultations, focus group discussions and validation workshops,” Boeck said.

    In separate interview, Mubarak Yusuf, Head of Nigeria Office/Field Director, International Public Opinion Research and Analysis, said three documents were reviewed for the revalidation and the first document was the NAP on IDP policies.

    He revealed that not less than 200 participants were engaged participated in consulting throughout the whole process.

    He added that one of the gaps in response to issues related to IDP is the reality there is perhaps no national detail, particularly when it comes to IDPs across Nigeria.

    “The NAP is trying to ensure that critical activities of the policy were outlined and this is a process seamlessly that has started right from August 2022 with a number of actors.

    “What we are looking at particularly now is revalidating this document,

    “Also, we are looking at it from the framework of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and poverty alleviation to measure what extent these activities will aid in alleviating poverty, particularly the vulnerable population,” he added (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FEA/ISHO/HS
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    Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Halima Sheji

     

  • When stakeholders converged on Banjul to affirm nuclear test rejection

    When stakeholders converged on Banjul to affirm nuclear test rejection

    By Fortune Abang, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

    Stakeholders gathered in Banjul, The Gambia, for a two-day African regional workshop organized by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) from May 31 to June 1, 2024.

    The workshop brought together 27 attendees from 23 countries, including both diplomatic and technical representatives.

    During the two-day event, participants emphasised the significance of African countries’ adherence to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) for ensuring peace and security across the region.

    Topics discussed included strategies to increase support for and achieve universal adoption of the CTBT in Africa, as well as ways to build momentum towards its entry into force.

    There was call to Africa Heads of State and Governments to advance the ratification and national implementation of the Treaty.

    The CTBT, a multilateral agreement opened for signature in September 1996, has since been signed by 187 nations and ratified by 178, prohibiting any nuclear weapons test anywhere in the world by anyone.

    The workshop also focused on ensuring that all States Signatories benefit from Treaty membership, whether through using the data collected by the organization’s state-of-the-art verification regime or accessing capacity building and training opportunities.

    It followed other regional and sub-regional outreach events held in Cairo, Egypt; Nairobi, Kenya; Rabat, Morocco; Niamey, Niger; Abuja, Nigeria; Dakar, Senegal; Pretoria, South Africa; and Tunis, Tunisia, among others.

    During the workshop, suggestions were made on how to better contribute to the International Monitoring System (IMS), a technical platform of CTBTO’s verification regime that detects nuclear test explosions globally.

    Others called for capacity building programmes and training initiatives to promote States signatories’ access to IMS data and International Data Centre (IDC) products for civil and scientific applications, such as earthquake warnings and climate change research.

    CTBTO Executive Secretary Robert Floyd emphasised the importance of the ban on nuclear testing for the African region, highlighting the Treaty’s International Monitoring System’s capability to detect any nuclear.

    He disclosed that the CTBT has not yet formally entered into force, requiring ratification from 9 remaining countries from a list of 44, including China, the United States, and Russia.

    He said that entry into force would unlock the Treaty’s full verification tools, including the ability to conduct on-site inspections to confirm the nature of any suspected nuclear test.

    Floyd emphasised the devastating impact of nuclear weapons, citing the Hiroshima bombing as an example, and encouraged African countries to ratify the CTBT, noting that Africa’s 35 IMS stations are actively monitoring global seismic activity.

    He praised Africa’s role in building consensus for the Treaty’s adoption by the UN General Assembly and highlighted the importance of complete adherence to the CTBT for realising a nuclear-weapon-free zone in Africa.

    Similarly, Mr Dawda Jallow, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice of The Gambia, said the regional workshop would help the stakeholders to discuss and advance the nuclear testing ban policy objective within the region.

    He said The Gambia’s ratification of the Treaty in 2022 demonstrated commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament, as well as dedication to a safer and more peaceful world.

    According to him, the challenges Africans faced today required collective efforts through dialogue and diplomacy with relevant support to the CTBT.

    Jallow said: “The CTBT’s primary aim is to prevent nuclear testing, but it can also have civil and scientific applications.”

    “The verification regime established by the CTBT offers valuable data and tools that can be utilised for purposes, such as climate change research, disaster prevention, including Tsunami warning.”

    “These capabilities provide additional benefits to countries like The Gambia and also have the potential of generating positive outcomes across various sectors of economy.”

    Dr Oumar Touray, President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, said Africa has been a driving force in nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.

    He said this was particularly through the Treaty of Pelindaba, which established a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (NWFZ) in the region.

    “This workshop is important to uniting African countries towards achieving a shared future, advancing the CTBT and reinforcing our collective resolve to prevent nuclear proliferation and promote global security.”

    “Today, we are gathered to contribute to a cause that not only affects our continents, but the entire world.”

    “This workshop is a testament to our shared dedication towards achieving sustainable peace and cooperation in Africa and beyond”, Touray said.

    Mako Sitali, a senior Geo-scientist at Namibia’s CTBT National Data Centre (NDC) extolled the workshop to have provided platform for knowledge sharing on gains of nuclear testing ban.

    “I believe in teamwork. Being in a room with so much regional expertise was a fantastic opportunity to learn from each other and collaborate. This is a crucial first step towards realising our vision of a world without nuclear tests”, Sitali said.

    The stakeholders agreed that the proposed 2025 workshop scheduled to be hosted in Latin America and the Caribbean or the Pacific will benefit all signatories to the Treaty.

    This, they agreed, will be achieved through capacity building, especially those interested in engaging in dialogue against nuclear weapons testing.

    This will also ensure the safety and protection of the environment from nuclear weapons tests, aid in disaster management.

    It will also serve various other civil and scientific purposes. It aims to establish a world without nuclear tests and create barriers against further development and proliferation of nuclear weapons. (NANFeatures)

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

  • Israel donates sporting equipment to primary school in Abuja

    Israel donates sporting equipment to primary school in Abuja

    Donation

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 24, 2024 (NAN) The State of Israel on Monday donated sports equipment worth approximately N3million to the Festival Road Primary school to advance sporting activities in Abuja.

    The Foreign Ministry Director-General of Israel Yaakov Blitshien, who led the delegation of Israeli officials at the event, expressed his country’s resolve to deepen ties with Nigeria through sports development.

    The director-general, while donating the equipment to the school, said the country looked forward to deepening bilateral ties between Israel and Nigeria through sports activities.

    According to him, in 1960, when Nigeria got her independence, the first ever football coach of the Nigerian national team was an Israeli ‘Jerry’ Beit haLevi.

    Blitshien said that steps would be taken to celebrate his life and connect both countries through sport.

    “To the super brain pupils, it is always good to come together to enjoy sport games, which can also teach you hard work, devotion, discipline and other things you can derive from being good football player.

    “Nigeria and Israel have always had strong football connections and today, they are more than 30 players that are playing in our leagues in Israel.

    “I am also pleased to announce that in 2025, we are going to hold series of maiden sport events in celebrating coach Beit haLevi.

    “The leagues between Israeli and Nigerian football will contest for the maiden Beit haLevi football Cup, let’s see who will win,’’he said.

    Speaking at the event, John Fashanu, former England football striker turned Sports Consultant, urged the Pupils to embrace football as way of life to achieve meaningful growth

    “Football is not just a game, it is a way of life; I am now 60 years old and I am still playing football and I am still coaching football.

    “So, in here we have the next John Fashanus and we have the next Pele,” he said.

    In separate interviews, a Pupil, Cynthia Ahamefula, said, “I love the way they were politely talking to us, they were not shouting at us.

    “I wish they can also paint our school and provide blackboards, because what we have are not enough for us, also our school toilet is in bad state and needs repair.”

    Glory Emmanuel said, “I am so glad that they came to our rescue, I want them to be doing this regularly.

    “We need the ceilings to be fixed because they have become deplorable, we need our school to be painted and we need new boards and other teaching/learning materials.”

    Meanwhile, another Pupil, Francis Frank, said, “I am so happy for what they have done for us today. I thank the Israeli delegation and pray God bless them.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • Nigeria, China bolster bilateral cooperation

    From L-R: Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar and his counterpart Wang Yi. (NAN)

     

    Cooperation

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 24, 2024 (NAN) Nigeria and China have signed joint agreement towards strengthening exchanges and bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and his counterpart, Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, disclosed this in their joint statement in China.

    Yi is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

    The two ministers, who co-chaired the first Plenary Session of the China-Nigeria Intergovernmental Committee, signed the statement centered on joint efforts by both countries to promote regional and world peace

    According to both ministers, their agreement will advance their respective departments of security operations, trade, police enforcement, enhance their capacity, safeguard national sovereignty and security interests.

    “The two countries restated commitment to enhancing the mutual bond and friendship between their two peoples mutual-trust, interest-sharing and common progress through mutual exchanges, mutual leaning and mutual understanding.

    “The two countries are willing to continue to build culture brands, such as the Happy Chinese New Year, Chinese-Nigeria Culture Week, Chinese-Nigeria Film Festival, and Abuja International Art Fair.

    “The two sides will strengthen mutual visits and exchanges between art groups and personnel; promote human resources training in the fields of culture and tourism, and support cooperation in creative culture between them.

    “The two sides will also strengthen cooperation in cultural and tourism fields, such as publishing, film and television production, cultural heritage, libraries, museums and tourism promotion.

    “The two sides confirmed their readiness to maintain regular contacts and close communication at all levels on convening the second Plenary Session of the China-Nigeria Intergovernmental Committee and Sessions of its Sub-committees.”

    The two officials reviewed the positive outcomes achieved since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria over the past 50 years.

    They also jointly planned the future development of the bilateral relations, exchanged views on China-Africa relations, major international and regional issues of mutual interest, and reached wide range consensus.

    Both countries pledged to support each other in their aspirations in various international fora, particularly the UN, G20 and BRICS.

    “The government of Nigeria acknowledges there is but one China in the world and that the government of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China.

    “Also that Taiwan is inalienable part of China’s territory; Nigeria opposes any separatist activities of “Taiwan independence” in any form.

    “In any external attempts to interfere in China’s internal affairs, Nigeria will support efforts by Chinese government to realise national reunification.

    “The two sides agreed to work towards good governance and democratic values, peace, security and stability in the Sahel region and recognise Nigeria’s leading role in fight against terrorism and other related transborder crimes.

    “Both agreed that necessary efforts towards ensuring economic viability of the region would be pursued through infrastructure development and sectoral cooperation.”

    Wang said that China commended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership role in ECOWAS and efforts to bring about stability in the sub-region.

    Similarly, Tuggar said Nigeria commended and support the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping.

    The ministers expressed both governments commitment to intensifying efforts to protect the rights and dignity of each other’s citizens living in its country and create business-friendly environment for their business.

    “The two sides agreed to support each other’s efforts to promote reunification, ethnic unity and social harmony, endeavour to enhance political mutual trust, and further support each other on matters related to its core interests and major concerns.

    “The two sides stressed the importance of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China-Africa relations, international peace and development, Nigeria supports China in hosting the 2024 FOCAC Summit.

    “The two sides agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral affairs and jointly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order underpinned by international law.

    “The two sides advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization that benefits all and jointly promotes building a community with a shared future for humanity.

    “Both countries are dedicated to advancing high-quality Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), facilitating synergies between BRI and FOCAC conference outcomes with Renewed Hope Agenda, Eight Priority Areas proposed by Tinubu and jointly promoting high-quality, practical cooperation in an all-around manner.”

    The two countries further promised to strengthen cooperation in the fields of infrastructure, electricity, telecommunications, finance, agriculture, industry, mining and free trade zones.

    Also, to jointly explore cooperation opportunities in fields such as digital economy, green economy and blue economy and foster new growth drivers in cooperation.

    “The Chinese side is willing to expand imports of Nigerian agricultural products; the Nigerian side called for increased partnership in Mining and Solid Mineral development and expressed willingness to partner Chinese companies to establish manufacturing companies in Nigeria for local consumption and exports.

    “The two sides stand ready to create transparent, fair and non-discriminatory business environment for cooperation between the two countries, strengthen the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, oppose trade protectionism, promote trade and investment liberalisation and facilitation.

    “The two sides support more Chinese and Nigerian provinces and municipalities/States and Local Governments in establishing more friendly relations and encouraging sister cities.

    “China expresses its commitment to support Nigeria in upgrading its science and technology in the military sector, equipment and capacity building of intelligence to respond more effectively to traditional and non-traditional security challenges at home and aboard; also at the regional and international levels and to safeguard peace and stability of the country,” the ministers said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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    Edited by Yinusa Ishola and Chijioke Okoronkwo

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Shettima woos Israel on expanding i-FAIR programme

    Shettima woos Israel on expanding i-FAIR programme

    Innovation

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 23, 2024 (NAN) Vice-President Kashim Shettima has implored Israeli government to expand its scope of the Innovation Fellowship for Aspiring Inventors and Researchers (i-FAIR) initiative programme to benefit more Nigerian youths.

    Shettima made the call during the meeting/tour of the Innov8Hub centre with Foreign Ministry Director-General of Israel, Mr Yaakov Blitshien, on Sunday in Abuja.

    The vice-president was represented by Mr Tope Fasua, the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs in the Office of the Vice-President.

    He commended i-FAIR initiative sponsored by Israel to have benefited young people, saying it should be scaled-up to enable more Nigerian youths benefit.

    Shettima said, “I think for some of the initiatives we have seen so far, the youth of this country are already taking initiatives to solve problem that they have.

    “Food inflation is 40 per cent as we speak, which is not acceptable, this is what we are actually battling to work-down as quickly as possible.

    “We will be like Oliver Twist; we want some more connection to the rest of the world, some more capita and mentorship with startups in Israel.

    “Such exposure will be good for them to see latest in scientific and technological innovation coming from Israel, which is reputed all over the world for their achievement.

    Blitshien described I-FAIR as one of Israeli flagship programme in Nigeria that had recorded remarkable successes

    “During the i-FAIR ceremony in March, 2024 the vice-president asked us to double the size of the programme.

    “So, I am pleased to announce Israel is committed to the programme together with our partners TETFund, to increase the size. We will be launching it very soon.

    “We are proud to meet the challenge of the vice-president and the government of President Bola Tinubu, we look forward to doing more project together in future.

    “I will be pleased to strengthen the relationship between Israel and Nigeria, and the one to open the institute of Israel to Nigeria,” Blitshien said.

    The Executive-secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, said the programme had been expanded through support from Israeli embassy in Nigeria.

    “We have another programme, where we are trying to have research labs and demonstration farms in our specialised agricultural universities.

    “We are also working in partnership with Israeli scientists and Innov8Hub to help us bring that together,” Echono said.

    For his part, Michael Freeman, Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, attributed close working relations between the embassy and the Tinubu-led administration for success of the programme.

    Freeman, also Permanent Representative of Israel to ECOWAS, said such partnership resulted in the achievement of various goals and aims of the government.

    “We are really pleased to be working with our partners.

    “We look forward to make a big difference for Nigerians and Israelis, because this is a partnership between our both countries,” Freeman said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • FG reiterates move to deepen Nigeria-China bilateral ties

    FG reiterates move to deepen Nigeria-China bilateral ties

    Ties

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 21, 2024 (NAN) The Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar has reiterated its move to deepen bilateral ties between Nigeria and China on grounds of mutual respect and shared developmental goals.

    Tuggar disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Abuja by Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Minister.

    The minister had arrived in China on June 19, on official working visit at the invitation of Mr Wang Yi, his Chinese counterpart.

    Tuggar delivered a keynote address at the China-Nigeria Business Exchange jointly organised by the Nigerian Embassy and Yingke Law Firm to ease bilateral-trade, investment and strengthen Nigeria-China business matchmaking.

    “This event is a testament to our commitment to strengthening Nigeria-China relations.

    “By fostering direct business engagements, we are paving way for increased bilateral trade, investment opportunities and innovative collaborations that will benefit both nations.

    “Over 200 Chinese companies took part in the event, showing astrong interest in fostering economic collaboration between the two nations,” Tuggar said.

    The statement revealed Tuggar would take part in high-level meetings, including the inaugural plenary of Nigeria-China intergovernmental committee in Beijing and the World Economic Forum Annual meeting of the New Champions in Dalian.

    The minister is also expected to meet with ECOWAS Ambassadors and inaugurate the 4-D Cultural Diplomacy Programme of the Renewed Hope Agenda by President Bola Tinubu at the Embassy of Nigeria.

    These, according to the statement, are expected to further solidify the strategic partnership between Nigeria and China.

    “The visit is aimed at deepening economic and trade collaboration, enhancing high-level exchanges and strengthening mutual support at multilateral fora.

    “Outcomes from the visit include advancing Nigeria’s development drive, boosting infrastructure development, improving healthcare and educational systems, stimulating job creation and economic opportunities.

    “Also, implementing bilateral agreements, increasing trade volume and diversification, attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), promoting entrepreneurship and strengthening industrial capabilities, and competitiveness,” the statement said.

    The event attracted notable Nigerian dignitaries and business leaders including; Aisha Rimi, Managing Director/CEO of Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

    Oluwaseun Fakuade, Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy, representing Gov. Ekiti Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, as well as key private sector leaders including Dr Adegboyega Austen-Peters, Chairman, Dorman Long Engineering Ltd.

    Others include, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Founder/Artistic Director, Terra Academy for The Arts (TAFTA), Bruce Ayonote, CEO, Suburban Fiber Company, Tunde Hassan-Odukale, Group CEO, Leadway Holdings, Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director/CEO, First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Jawad Saleh Mustapha, Renecon Energy Ltd. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    FEA/MNA

    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
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  • Sallah: Foreign affairs minister seeks unity, prayers against insecurity

     

    Unity

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) As Muslims celebrate Eid-el Kabir, foreign affairs minister Yusuf Tuggar has urged them to unite in prayer against insecurity.

    He also urged them to rededicate themselves to nation building.

    Tuggar, in a statement by Alkasim Abdulkadir, his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, reminded the faithful of Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to obey Allah when commanded to sacrifice his son.

    “That sacrifice was a profound and significant act, which has meaning to Muslims faithful.

    “It symbolises and commemorates the ultimate act of devotion and obedience to Almighty Allah; a demonstration set by the Prophet that resonates with us all.

    “As you offer your sacrifices, may Allah shower his divine blessings on you and fulfil all your prayers and aspirations on this occasion of Eid-el Kabir.

    “The festival is a time to reflect on the profound act of selflessness exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

    “It encourages us to embrace the spirit of giving and standing together to support those in need, fostering a strong sense of community and togetherness.

    “Let us use this opportunity to reach out to our neighbours, friends and those less fortunate, ensuring that all share the blessings of this sacred festival.

    “On this joyous day, may your hearts be filled with an abundance of happiness, your homes with the tranquillity of peace, and your lives with the richness of prosperity.

    “Let us celebrate with deep gratitude and hope, looking forward to a future of greater harmony and cooperation,” the statement said.  (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
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    Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna and Ephraims Sheyin

  • Organisation advocates adequate investment in knowledge exchange among Africans

    Organisation advocates adequate investment in knowledge exchange among Africans

    Education

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The African School of Diplomacy and International Relations (ASDIR) has underscored the need for cooperation and knowledge exchange among Africans through peer-to-peer education.

    The Vice-Chairman/CEO of ASDIR, Tunji Asaolu, disclosed this on Friday in Abuja, while briefing reporters on the African peer-to-peer education conference and tour, scheduled to be held from July 28 to 31, 2024 in Kigali.

    The event with the theme: “Promoting the Spirit of Pan-Africanism Through Education, Experiences and Interactions”, was organised by the school in collaboration with Rwanda Cooperation and the Queens University Belfast, UK.

    According to him, the educational tour in Kigali will help advance the African Union (AU’s) agenda and ensure a brighter future for the African youth, who are forerunners of transformative change in the 21st century.

    Asaolu said, “Our tour has three primary objectives. Firstly, to facilitate knowledge exchanges by engaging participants in dynamic dialogues on diplomatic practices and international relations within Africa.

    “Secondly, to offer a deeper understanding of post-conflict reconciliation through Rwanda’s remarkable journey, serving as a model for positive transformation.

    “Lastly, to foster collaboration and networking among participants, creating a platform for impactful change and innovation in diplomacy and international relations.”

    Asaolu, who is also Deputy Secretary-General of African Affairs and Special envoy to the AU, said not less than 1000 students across various fields globally have so far affiliated with the ASDIR school founded in 2018.

    He said that the peer-to-peer education conference opened for Nigerians to participate, and would feature the award of an honorary doctorate and interaction on Rwanda’s foreign policy.

    He added that it would also provide a platform for diaspora engagement and regional integration within the East African Community (EAC) while urging relevant stakeholders to work closely with the organisation to achieve the targets.

    “I invite all stakeholders, policymakers, educators, and advocates for education to join hands in realising the transformative potential of education, as the catalyst for sustainable development and inclusive growth in Africa.

    “Let us heed the call to promote education and skill in Africa in the 21st Century; join us on this extraordinary journey to Kigali, Rwanda, as we embrace the spirit of Pan-Africa towards a brighter future,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

     

  • Democracy Day: X-raying President Tinubu’s 4-D foreign policy strategy

    Democracy Day: X-raying President Tinubu’s 4-D foreign policy strategy

    By Fortune Abang, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) 
    As Nigeria celebrates the 25th anniversary of unbroken democratic governance since the transition from military rule in 1999, foreign affairs experts are of the view that the President Bola Tinubu administration’s foreign policy strategy centered on Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora (4-D) has achieved a lot, but more still needs to be done to realise the objectives the initiative seeks to achieve fully.
    Explaining the four-dimensional space built by the Tinubu administration for the country’s foreign policy, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar said the initiative aims to drive Nigeria’s overall development by ensuring that Nigeria’s strategic national interests are effectively represented worldwide as “Nigeria and indeed, Africa’s development, depends increasingly on a new line of vision.”
    The 4-D strategy is one of the Tinubu administration’s visions to drive its Renewed Hope Agenda from the foreign scene.
    Experts believe that since Tinubu took over the mantle of leadership from Muhammadu Buhari in May 2023, expectations have risen higher for the government to improve the nation’s age-long non-alignment in the international scene.
    The analysts said while Nigeria’s foreign policy gained global commendation for tenuously promoting Africa’s interests at both the sub-regional and continental levels without compromising its position, the administration has yet to explore fully the potential of the 4-D foreign policy strategy to tackle internal challenges and embark on the journey toward economic transformation.
    Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a serving diplomat who pleaded anonymity, decried the massive recall of envoys by the administration, but urged the government to put mechanisms in place for quick responses to emergencies during conflict situations especially when it affects Nigerians living abroad.
    “My appointment letter to be an envoy stated three years, but the new government asked all of us to return home. No country in the world recalls all its foreign principals and envoys at the same time. It is never done.
    “How do you expect the interests of Nigerians living abroad to be protected?
    “So, it means we have willfully compromised our nationals to bear the brunt of whatever they get, wherever they are.”
    Prof. Jonah Onuoha, a university teacher, said Nigeria’s foreign policy strategy has positioned the country on a pedestal to be visible globally and enjoy recognition as a sub-regional and continental hegemon with the right to speak and be listened to.
    Onouha, a professor of International Relations and the Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, said Nigeria’s Afro-centric foreign policy posture “has offered the country worldwide visibility and recognition”.
    According to him, Nigeria implemented this foreign policy thrust over the years through various programmes such as the anti-colonial struggle, anti-apartheid policy, promotion of peace and security, promotion of African unity and cooperation, and the implementation of technical aid cooperation with some African countries, among others.
    Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman told NAN that Nigeria’s 4-D foreign policy strategy has recorded remarkable feats under the Tinubu administration.
    Freeman reiterated Israel’s commitment to working closely with the administration to support it in its quest to realise the mandate it has set.
    “We are excited and happy to work with President Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda.
    “We’ll certainly key into that. We want to partner with him and we want to work with his government.
    “Tinubu’s vision of a million new jobs in the digital economy is something we want to associate with and work with through the i-FAIR programme.
    “We hope to announce that in the future. We are also excited to work with him on economic issues, agriculture, health, education – all of the different sectors – and certainly, we see a bright future for Nigeria and Israel.
    “Together, we can achieve amazing things and we are excited about the future. Before now, there has been a clarion call for partnerships between Israeli and Nigerian security forces to tackle issues that pertain to lives and property.
    “Now, not much has been done in that regard because the more efforts are made, the more they are being foiled,” Freeman said.
    Nigeria’s foreign affairs minister at a public forum reiterated that the 4-D policy doctrine provides dynamic and unique concepts for the advancement of Nigeria’s relations with the outside world.
    “The Tinubu 4-D policy aligns with the core vision of the ministry to effectively position itself as Nigeria’s window to the international community.
    “Implementing the Tinubu 4-D policy will help create more opportunities to attract foreign direct investment.
    “It will promote relevant awareness on the power of art and culture to foster understanding and cooperation amongst nations and promote the ministry’s effort at blending culture and diplomacy in repositioning Nigeria’s identity globally,” Tuggar said.
    Dr Frank Onyekwelu, President-General of Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA), said although the led administration’s 4-D foreign policy initiatives are good, more should be done to enable compatriots to work in tandem with the policies in tackling economic challenges.
    Foreign affairs analysts agree that sustaining the gains made from the 4-D approach so far and making significant progress toward tackling poverty, insecurity, and other social challenges will require diplomatic dexterity and consistency in the implementation of the four-pronged strategy.
    They restated the need for Tinubu administration to remain steadfast in ensuring the success of the policy as anything less could be considered a failure. (NANFeatures)============**If used please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)==================================.

  • Pakistani stock investor predicts mounting risk for the U.S. economy

    U.S. Dollars (NAN)

     

    Inflation

    By Fortune Abang

    Abuja, June 7, 2024 (NAN) Mr Ali Khwaja, Chairman of KTrade Securities, a Pakistani-based stock and commodity outfit, says the U.S. inflation can impact negatively on the developing world.

    Khwaja, who communicated this  during a virtual analysis of the KTrade Securities research report, said the highlight had become important because the U.S. grappled with persistent inflation.

    He said that no country was immune to fallout of inflation, adding that the U.S. was not immune to fallout either.

    “Concerns are about possible 1970-style stagflation amid slowing economy and stubborn inflation.’’

    According to him, small and medium businesses can bear the brunt due to compounding impact of high inflation in the mass market.

    “Inflation effects often add up; when things become too expensive that people start cutting-down on expenditure and new hiring in businesses, a recession is in sight.

    “Next year, when people try to remortgage their homes, they will find it is very expensive, as seven per cent is a very high interest rate.”

    He quoted the Federal Reserve Chair, Jerome Powell, to have expressed confidence in curbing inflation, saying it was not as high as it was after the Producer Price Index (PPI).

    He cited the recent data from the U.S. Labor Department to have pointed to a 0.5 per cent uptick in the PPI for April and a rebound from the 0.1per cent dip in March.

    “Earlier, the U.S. Commerce Department stated consumer prices witnessed a 3.4 per cent year-on-year increase in the first quarter, much higher than the two per cent target.

    “These figures dented hope; yet for rate cuts within the year, dealing another blow to market expectations after several wrecked rate-cut prospects since the beginning of the year.

    “This will change dynamics, because interest rates are already at 23 year high as the impact of high interest rates has not come to small business owners and real estate owners.

    “Debt contracts they had are not up for re-pricing; when re-pricing kicks in later this year, it will be a massive hit to consumers that can lead to recession later this year and through 2025.’’

    The chairman explained that the costs of debt servicing are soaring; particularly in currencies across Asian markets, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, India which are at historic lows.

    “In some cases, central banks have to intervene to defend their currencies; when a protectionism policy is adopted, it will be very difficult to control inflation.

    “The reason why the world had a period of low inflation and high growth was because of the benefit of trade.

    “Yet over the last five years, protectionism has led to lesser trade, higher tariffs on consumption and higher fuel prices, all of which contributed to higher inflation,” he said.

    He decried manipulation of economics for political gains as a way to likely backfire, stating that higher inflation led to political and societal friction by creating a gap between the rich and the poor.

    Khwaja also said such could strain the economy of any country.

    He quoted Dr Abid Suleri, Executive-Director, Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), saying if high inflation persists, the new government faces challenges in meeting expectations of the electorate.

    “The first thing the new U.S. administration might do after the election is to reassess the real value of dollars.

    “It has two options; in my opinion, one is to depreciate the value of U.S. dollar vis-a-vis other major currencies; which is a step no outgoing government will like to take.

    “Otherwise, the U.S. itself will become more and more non-competitive; not only against China but also against the EU, Japan and other trading nations,” Suleri said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FEA/CHOM/CJ/

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    Edited by Chioma Ugboma and Chijioke Okoronkwo