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ECOWAS Revisits Implementation of Community Levy on All Imports into Region
ECOWAS Revisits Implementation of Community Levy on All Imports into Region
By: Michael Mike
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has revisited the implementation of community levy in the region as it tops the agenda at the ongoing 35th meeting of the Commission’s Committee on Administration and Finance.
The Commission had adopted a community levy of 0.5 percent on all imports into the region rather than the contribution from member states, but there are however challenges of implementation to the protocol adopted since 2014.
Members of the committee are drawn from 12 member states as three member states- Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republic had signified their intention to pull out of the 15 member regional bloc.
Members of the committee are in Abuja for the next five days to consider ongoing reform in the commission and the issue of community levy.
Another area the committee is expected to discuss, is the Commission’s organogram, which has been in use since 2018.
The expected organogram review will touch all ECOWAS institutions including the community court, community parliament and the commission.
The review is expected to take into consideration the recent reduction of numbers of committees from 15 to 7.
The members have a report of about 100 to 150 pages to consider during the five days.
At the end of the five days, members are expected to adopt the proposal and then pass it to the council of ministers for their perusal and adoption.
In her opening remarks, ECOWAS Commission’s Vice President, Damtien Tchintchibidja, pleaded with member states on the need to adhere to the community protocol, especially the protocol on Community levy.
She said: “I would like to make an urgent appeal to all member states so that they can comply as quickly as possible with the provisions of the protocol relating to community levy.”
She stressed that remittance of community levy will “ allow us to ensure the good functioning of institutions and the implementation of projects within the community.”
She also raised the impact the exit of the three countries, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republic will have on the community levy
She said: “I would like to remind you that the meeting of this day is held in a challenging context, characterised by uncertainties on a regional and global level.
“The announced withdrawal of our three member states appeals to us all in more than one way.
“We therefore must put everything in place to safeguard our unity, our secular ties, our spirit of fraternity and solidarity, as a result of an inclusive development,” she emphasised.
Speaking on the importance of the meeting, Tchintchibidja explained, “This is a retreat that would also be a win-win for our institutions in terms of community levy. Regarding the community levy, I would like to remind you that it remains the main source of funds for ECOWAS programmes and activities.
The chairman of the CAF, Ambassador Emmanuel Awe emphasised the need for members of the committee to sustain efforts in implementing policies and programmes that enhance and promote integration.
Awe said: “We owe our community the obligation to handle our mandate objectively and dispassionately.
“And fulfilling the task assigned by this committee, I urge you to further sustain the efforts in implementing the policies, projects, and programmes that enhance and promote prudent management of the community resources, as well as advance our regional integration objectives in line with ECOWAS vision 2050.”
ECOWAS Revisits Implementation of Community Levy on All Imports into Region
Troops rescue three kidnapped victims in Zamfara
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued three kidnapped victims during a fighting patrol in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Security sources told Zagazola that the operation was conducted on April 25 at about 9:00 p.m. by troops of 1 Brigade in collaboration with hybrid forces deployed at Kulchin Kalgo.
The sources said the troops advanced to Bilbis area following intelligence on the presence of terrorists and made contact with the armed group.
According to the sources, the troops engaged the criminals in a firefight, forcing them to flee and abandon three kidnapped victims in the process.
The rescued victims were subsequently handed over to the district head of Bilbis for safe custody and further reunification with their families.
The sources added that the troops have continued exploitation of the area to track fleeing suspects, while the general security situation remains under close monitoring.
Troops rescue three kidnapped victims in Zamfara
Troops arrest suspects, rescue kidnap victim in Benue
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested two suspected kidnappers and rescued a victim in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
Security sources said that the incident occurred on April 25 at about 10:30 a.m., when troops deployed at Agidi responded to reports of a kidnap incident in Abenga and Mabur communities.
The sources said the troops swiftly mobilised to the area and made contact with the suspected kidnappers, engaging them during the operation.
According to the sources, the troops overpowered the criminals, leading to the arrest of two suspects and the rescue of one kidnapped victim.
The sources added that the apprehended suspects and the rescued victim have been handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and necessary action.
They assured that security forces will continue to intensify operations to curb kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.
Troops arrest suspects, rescue kidnap victim in Benue
Troops, DSS arrest suspected IPOB/ESN member in Enugu raid
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have arrested a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a raid in Enugu State.
Sources said that the operation was carried out on April 25 at about 6:20 p.m. by troops of 82 Division Garrison, 103 Battalion and 197 Special Forces Battalion.
The sources said the joint team conducted the raid at Obinofia Ndiagu village, where one suspected IPOB/ESN operative was apprehended.
According to the sources, three mobile phones were recovered from the suspect during the operation.
They added that the suspect and recovered items are currently in the custody of the 82 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and necessary action.
The sources noted that the operation is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in the South-East.
Troops, DSS arrest suspected IPOB/ESN member in Enugu raid
Troops rescue three kidnapped victims in Zamfara
Troops foil kidnap attempt, rescue victim in Kaduna
Troops arrest 10 suspects in Benue offensive operation
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