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UNODC Commends Nigeria’s fight against maritime crime

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UNODC Commends Nigeria’s fight against maritime crime

UNODC Commends Nigeria’s fight against maritime crime

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has commended the efforts of the Nigerian government in the fight against maritime crime.

A statement on Tuesday by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Communications Associate, Ms. Olivia Ogechi Okorondu said the Government of Nigeria, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy need to be commended for their sustained efforts in the fight against maritime crime.

The commendation was given during the opening of a four-day Inter-Agency Expert Consultative Dialogue Session in Lagos, on the implementation plan of Nigeria’s draft National Maritime Strategy organized with the support of the Danish Government. 

According to the statement, the Government of Nigeria had in 2015 inaugurated a committee made up of several maritime stakeholders within the public and private spheres to work on drafting a National Maritime Strategy. The vision of the National Maritime Strategy is to support Nigeria’s economic prosperity, growth and development through the sustainable use of the nation’s maritime resources in a safe and secure environment.

The event hosted in Lagos is aimed at providing a platform to undertake a proper articulation of the implementation framework and to obtain practical consensus on the institutional arrangement for the operationalization of the National Maritime Strategy.

The Country Representative of the UNODC Nigeria, Oliver Stolpe in his opening remarks at the opening ceremony on Monday noted that according to the first six-month report of the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) for 2021 released in July, there has been an overall decline in reported incidents in the Gulf of Guinea which was attributed to the sustained and collective efforts of the regional and international navies, regional organizations as well as national maritime security agencies.

Stolpe commended in particular the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure also called the Deep Blue Project being implemented by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) as well as the Nigerian Navy’s increased presence within the maritime domain.

He assured the Government of Nigeria of UNODC’S continued commitment and support in the process of ensuring that the maritime security strategy is in place and operational.

Also Read: 2023: APC needs a rocky Chairman to succeed – Former Borno…

In his opening remarks, the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sune Krogstrup, stated that under the Danish Gulf of Guinea Maritime Security Programme, the Danish Government is currently supporting programmes for longer-term institutional strengthening of maritime governance through intensified regional capabilities as well as capacities for maritime domain awareness and response. 

He said that the development of national maritime strategies is key to long term maritime governance, noting that where security is guaranteed, cost is reduced, and economic development is enhanced.

The representative of the Minister of Defence, Utsu Peter Ashibel, Director Airforce, Ministry of Defence, stated that the maritime environment provides a critical pathway for international commerce and socio-economic interaction between many countries in the world. 

He further stated that the maritime domain serves as a gateway for the importation of goods into Nigeria and other landlocked countries in West Africa.  He mentioned the commitment of Nigeria and other Gulf of Guinea member states aimed at improving safety and security in the region; adding that the Deep Blue Project and the investment in the acquisition of more patrol vessels and aircraft for the Nigerian Navy were an attestation to this commitment on the part of Nigeria.

He expressed confidence that the Inter Agency Expert Consultative Dialogue Session will provide the deliberative platform for a clear articulation process for an effective implementation plan for the draft National Maritime Strategy, identify areas of collaboration among relevant stakeholders and further enhance its implementation framework.

The draft National Maritime Strategy was concluded in 2019. It is currently awaiting approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC). The UNODC remains committed to support the strengthening of strategic approaches to maritime security in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

UNODC Commends Nigeria’s fight against maritime crime

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Delegation of Chinese Business Leaders Visits Nigeria for Investment Opportunities

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Delegation of Chinese Business Leaders Visits Nigeria for Investment Opportunities

By: Michael Mike

A 35-man delegation of Chinese business leaders have visited Nigeria with the purpose of investing in the country and establishing partnerships in Nigerian businessmen.

The visit which was facilitated by the Pan-African Expansion Industrial Nigeria Ltd, saw the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), hosting the delegation. NCSP had earlier visited China to promote Nigeria and invite Chinese investors to the country.

A statement by the NCSP at the weekend, read: “In line with the comprehensive strategic partnership between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China, the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) hosted a 35-man delegation of Chinese business leaders interested in investing and establishing partnerships in Nigeria.

“The delegation, whose visit was facilited by Pan-African Expansion Industrial Nigeria Ltd, comprised of companies with interests in Science and Technology, Mining, Construction, Real estate, Healthcare, Tourism and E-commerce. They were received by the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Mr. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe. Mr Jason Zhu, the delegation lead, highlighted areas of desired investments in Nigeria, leveraging on China’s industrial and technological advancements.

“While welcoming the delegation, the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) noted that Nigeria offers a dynamic and increasingly attractive business environment, marked by significant growth and abundant opportunities for investment. As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria significantly contribute to the continent’s GDP, boasting a vibrant and resilient market and a business climate that benefits from a large and youthful population, a strategic geographic location, and a government dedicated to implementing reforms that enhance economic stability and investor confidence. He highlighted policies and programmes that investors can key into, including investment in Free Trade Zone to boost exports from Nigeria.”

Responding to questions, the DG emphasized that Nigeria is positioned to serve as the gateway to business across the African continent. However, he urged the investors to prioritize local production, stating that Nigeria seeks to move beyond merely exporting raw commodities. Instead, the focus is on upgrading exports to value-added products. He encouraged the delegation to bring advanced technology and manufacturing capabilities to support this goal, which aligns with the nation’s industrialization aspirations.

The statement added that: “Nigeria’s thriving technology sector stands as a beacon of opportunity. The country has produced several tech unicorns, such as Andela and Flutterwave, and continues to attract global investments. With China leading the way in technological innovation, deeper collaboration in this sphere offers immense potential. Strengthened cooperation between Nigeria and China would yield mutual benefits, including increased trade and investment, job creation, enhanced infrastructure and knowledge transfer.

The Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) represented by Mrs Victoria Aigbedion outlined the entry protocols for the investors to register their businesses, and the incentives they can take advantage of. She noted that the NIPC is committed to making the process timely and hitch-free.

Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership was established to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments, aligning with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The event marked another significant step in deepening the Nigeria-China business relationships and is expected to foster a mutually beneficial cooperation between the two nations.

Delegation of Chinese Business Leaders Visits Nigeria for Investment Opportunities

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Senator Lawan visits UMAPO’s former chairman in Potiskum

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Senator Lawan visits UMAPO’s former chairman in Potiskum

By: Yahaya Wakili

The president of the 9th Senate, Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, PhD, GCON, Sardaunan Bade, Yobe North Senatorial District, has paid a solidarity visit to the residence of the former chairman of the United Marketers Association Potiskum (UMAPO) and staunch member of APC in Potiskum, Alhaji Nasiru Mato.

The main purpose of the visit of the former Senate President is to sympathize with Alhaji Nasiru Mato following the unfortunate fire accident that gutted his house.

Senator Lawan was deeply saddened to witness the extent of the damage caused by the fire, and thanks Almighty Allah that no lives were lost in the accident.

He assured Alhaji Nasiru Mato of his support as he works to rebuild and recover from his setback, adding that such moments remind us of the importance of compassion and sacrifice for one another in times of need.

“But most importantly, we should always remember that Almighty Allah will always test us in various ways, including the loss of our possessions. May we always pass these tests. Amin,” Senator Ahmad Lawan said.

He also prays, May Allah (SWT) grant him and his family the strength to overcome this trial and replace what was lost with something better. Amen.

The Sardaunan Bade was accompanied during the visit by Hon. Yau Usman Dachia, Deputy Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Gado Da Masun Bade, and Alhaji Mohammed Garba Gagiyo, among others.

Senator Lawan visits UMAPO’s former chairman in Potiskum

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NASPRI INTRODUCES ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND FACT CHECKING TO PARTICIPANTS OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION COURSE

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NASPRI INTRODUCES ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND FACT CHECKING TO PARTICIPANTS OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION COURSE

By: Our Reporter

The Acting Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Lt Col Adamu Ngulde has disclosed to the participants of Strategic Communication Course to prepare to further enhance their knowledge on Artificial Intelligence in Information Management and Fact Checking as part of the courses lined up for their training. He made this known on Friday 11 April 2025, during the inauguration ceremony of the second quarter courses 2025 at the Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja auditorium in Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment Giri Abuja.

The acting Commandant further stated that the School is collaborating with the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Abuja and Prof Ishaq Oyebisi Oyefolahan, Research Professor, Africa Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning (ACETEL) to training them on current trends in the field of Strategic Communication.

He also said that in modern public relations, Strategic Communication is essential for aligning military messaging and narratives with national interest, managing public perception, and countering misinformation in both peace and conflict situations.

Similarly, he also reminded students of A1 Photojournalism Course the vital role photographs play in documenting military activities, telling authentic visual stories that shape public trust and boost morale while graphic design and printing ensures that communication materials are not only informative but also visually compelling and professionally delivered. Assuring them that NASPRI will provide a well package training for all students in line with their various courses.

Lt Col Ngulde expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede for his unwavering support to the Directorate of Army Public Relations and NASPRI which has been instrumental in sustaining the standard the school upheld today. He also extended appreciation to the Commander TRADOC NA, Maj Gen Kelvin Aligbe and the Chief of Training (Army) Maj Gen AS Ndalolo, for their continuous guidance and support throughout the training year.

Earlier, the Acting Chief Instructor of the school, Maj Tonye Wenke while reading out the course expectations stated that courses are prerequisite for career progression and service delivery and the students are therefore expected to meet up with the training objectives of the school as they will be tutored in many subjects which will equip them with the skills in handling the 5th Generation Warfare, which is information based. He admonished them to settle down quickly and ensure that they put themselves in the right frame of mind to effectively key into the training activities earmarked for the courses.

Maj Wenke also reminded the students on the need to acquaint themselves with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) of NASPRI and exhibit the highest standard of discipline required of military personnel as all acts of indiscipline will not be tolerated.
A total of 76 students assembled for the second quarter 2025 courses comprising of 16 Senior Officers for the Strategic Communication Course, A1 photojournalism and X3 Graphics Design and Printing

NASPRI INTRODUCES ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND FACT CHECKING TO PARTICIPANTS OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION COURSE

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