National News
Reopening of Seme border could stimulate economic activity in automotive sector- University Don
Reopening of Seme border could stimulate economic activity in automotive sector- University Don
By: Michael Mike
The decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reopen the Seme border has been commended as in order since it could stimulate activities in Nigeria’s automotive industry with significant implications for the nation’s economy.
The Head of Economics Department at Bingham University, Abuja, Prof Abayomi Awujola stated on Sunday in an interview with journalists, while emphasizing the importance of understanding the magnitude of the policy and urged the government to conduct ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and analysis to ensure the success of the policy.
He said one of the immediate implications of reopening the border is an increased demand for vehicles. Importers and consumers would have easier access to a wider range of vehicle options, both new and used, from different markets, noting that this surge in demand could stimulate economic activity in the automotive sector, benefiting various stakeholders.
Awujola also said the reopening of the border would also generate revenue for the government through customs duties, taxes, and other fees imposed on imported vehicles, stressing that this additional revenue could contribute to the government’s budget and be potentially invested in infrastructure development or other public services.
The university don said with the government aiming to achieve a 7% average annual GDP growth rate, double the economy to approximately $1 trillion, lift 100 million people out of poverty, create over 50 million jobs, transform Nigeria into Africa’s most efficient trading nation, and deliver sustained inclusive growth, decisions like the reopening of Seme Border need to continuously be taken.
According to Awujola, “the availability of vehicles from different sources may lead to increased competition in the domestic automotive market. Local vehicle manufacturers and dealers may face competition from imported vehicles, influencing pricing, quality, and customer preferences. This could drive improvements in the domestic industry and provide consumers with more options.”
He added that the reopening of the border could create employment opportunities in the automotive sector as jobs would be generated for vehicle importers, distributors, dealerships, mechanics, and other related services. This would contribute to income generation and potentially improve livelihoods for individuals involved in the industry.
He however noted that it is essential for the government to carefully consider the potential implications of this policy.
He said: “The reopening of the border for vehicle importation may impact the country’s trade balance and foreign exchange reserves. If more vehicles are imported than exported, it could result in a trade deficit in the automotive sector. Additionally, the importation of vehicles would require foreign currency, putting pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
“On the consumer front, increased access to a wider range of vehicles would provide consumers with more choices and potentially better prices. This could lead to increased consumer spending in the automotive sector and improved purchasing power for individuals and businesses.
“The government must be mindful that policy implications can have both positive and negative effects. It is crucial to closely monitor, evaluate, and analyze these effects every six months to ensure appropriate adjustments and interventions are made to mitigate any potential drawbacks.”
Reopening of Seme border could stimulate economic activity in automotive sector- University Don
FG Declares Public Holiday on June 12 to Mark Democracy Day
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 12th June, 2025 as Public Holiday to commemorate this year’s democracy day celebration.
The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, congratulated Nigerians on this occasion of 26 years of an uninterrupted civil rule.
He said: “June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign and peace is sustained and our future assured.
“The last 26 years tells the story of our resilience, strength and courage and a hope Renewed than ever.”
The Minister while noting that Democracy is sustained with open doors for further improvement, reiterated the commitment of the Renewed Hope government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) to the universal value of democracy that is based on freely-expressed will of the people in determining Nigeria’s political, economic, social and cultural systems.
FG Declares Public Holiday on June 12 to Mark Democracy Day
Chieftaincy dispute causes chaos in Muye village in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A renewed chieftaincy tussle in Muye village, Lapai Local Government Area of Niger State, has sparked violent confrontations between rival supporters, prompting swift intervention by security operatives.
Zagazola Makama gathered that the crisis began around 6:20 p.m. on Thursday when the deposed village head, Alhaji Mohammed Abdulkadir Maigari II, forcefully returned to Muye and broke into the palace.
The incident provoked tension among residents, especially after supporters of the current Dakachi confronted the deposed monarch. The situation was immediately brought under control by a team of security personnel from Lapai.
However, Zagazola learnt that the situation escalated on Friday morning when supporters of both camps clashed again, leading to a free-for-all fight that disrupted public peace in the community.
Security sources were swiftly deployed to Muye to restore normalcy.
“The combined security teams have brought the situation under control. Monitoring and surveillance operations are ongoing to prevent further breakdown of law and order,” the source said.
No casualties or arrests have been officially confirmed as of the time of filing this report.
Chieftaincy dispute causes chaos in Muye village in Niger
Eid-el-Kabir: IPCR Calls on Nigerians to Peace, Harmony
By: Michael Mike
Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has called on Nigerians to promote peace and harmony in their communities, recognizing that peace is essential to national development and progress.
The advice was given by the Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, in his message on Eid-el-Kabir.
The Institute, while extending warm greetings to Nigerians, wished them a joyous and peaceful celebration, marked by love, compassion, and unity.
The Institute while noting that Sallah is a significant occasion in the Islamic calendar, symbolizing the values of sacrifice, gratitude, and community, emphasized that the spirit of Sallah should guide Nigerians in their interactions with one another, fostering a culture of peace, tolerance, and understanding.
The IPCR urged Nigerians to promote peace and harmony in their communities, recognizing that peace is essential to national development and progress, while
encouraging individuals to embrace the values of Sallah, including forgiveness, empathy, and kindness, in their daily lives.
According to IPCR, peace is critical to promoting national stability and cohesion.
The Institute also urged Nigerians to use this period of Sallah celebration to address conflicts and promote dialogue, which could help to build trust and understanding among Nigerians and also contribute to a more peaceful society.
It recognized that the country’s many ethnic and religious groups can work together to build a more harmonious society, celebrating their differences and promoting a culture of tolerance.
End
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