Nigeria Emerges New Africa Representative in International Ranger Federation

By: Michael Mike

The National Park Service (NPS), Assistant Conservator of Parks, Mohammed Dikko Bala has emerged the new regional representative for Africa.

He was elected in a recent election of new executives of International Ranger Federation (IRF) at the 10th World Ranger Congress (WRC) held in Hyeres, France.

Remarking on his emergence as the new Africa Regional Representative, Mohammed Dikko Bala, who is a dedicated and highly committed ranger, promised to continue protecting and promoting the interest of African rangers, forest guards and other protected area workers.

He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal Abbas and the Conservator-General of the National Park Service, Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, for their kind approval and unwavering support for his participation in the elections.

Bala promised to be more dedicated and committed in his new position towards giving African rangers a renewed hope and a befitting representation at the IRF as well as in realizing the 30X30 target.

He explained that The 30X30 target is the target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) aimed at achieving effective conservation and management of at least 30% of the Earth’s land and sea area by 2030.

In his message at the 10th IRF Congress, President of International Ranger Federation, Chris Galliers, emphasized the critical role rangers play especially given the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Calling for more support for rangers, he said, “Ask yourself this simple question, how much wildlife would there be today, if there were no rangers, and you will realize why the world needs to recognize the value and importance of rangers, particularly in light of the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss facing humanity.”

Speaking further, Galliers said “Whether state, private, volunteer or indigenous community rangers, rangers are essential planetary health workers and are the key workforce in achieving the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework Targets.”

He noted that the 10th IRF World Ranger Congress was an opportunity to share knowledge, develop new skills, broaden perspectives, forge meaningful collaborations and collectively, advance the ranger profession.

The 10th World Ranger Congress was organized by the International Ranger Federation in collaboration with Gardes Natures de France (GNF), in Hyeres, France, from 7-11 October 2024

The International Ranger Federation Congress is a Triennial global forum and the 10th IRF Congress attracted over 400 ranger professionals and conservation workers to discuss topics of common interest and concern in an international development event.

The IRF Congress is a pivotal event that fosters international collaboration, addressing pressing environmental issues such as wildlife protection, sustainable practices, and emerging technologies. Beyond knowledge exchange, the Congress celebrates ranger commitment and bravery, acknowledging their sacrifices on the conservation frontline.

With a focus on diversity and inclusivity, the event honors indigenous perspectives and advocates for ongoing support. It stands as a dynamic, cross-cultural platform shaping the future of global conservation efforts.

Nigeria Emerges New Africa Representative in International Ranger Federation

Nigerian Wins Chinese Singing Competition

By: Michael Mike

A Nigerian, Linda Ifeoma has emerged as the winner of the Chinese category at a Singing Competition organised by the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria and the China Cultural Centre.

The grand finale of the competition sponsored by China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited, had two categories Chinese and English and was held at the weekend at the Chinese Cultural Centre in Abuja

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the event, Linda expressed her excitement about her win, as she competed in a category dominated by Chinese native speakers.

She said she initially did not want to compete when she was contacted as she had lost first time she competed at a similar competition.

She narrated that: “At that time (last time she contested), I was very discouraged. But when she asked me to try again, I thought, ‘Okay, let me give it another shot.’ Initially, I didn’t even expect to win the first round. So, I’m absolutely excited to win here today.”

Linda’s journey to the finals involved winning the first round of the competition held few days earlier, followed by intensive practice leading up to her performance in the finale.

Linda, who studied Business Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and pursued Chinese as a side course, and later received a Chinese government scholarship to study in Nanjing, China, where she earned a master’s degree in the language, performed a Chinese song, showcasing her fluency and passion for the language.

She said: “When I was in school, I wanted to work in an embassy. I asked myself, ‘What do I need to achieve this goal?’ I realized I needed to learn a language other than my mother tongue.”

The singer also shared her aspirations in songwriting, describing this competition as a pivotal moment in her journey. “Personally, I write songs, and I think this is an opportunity for me to step out of my shell and showcase my talent,” she said.

Linda encouraged Nigerians to study Chinese language, highlighting its potential to unlock opportunities in employment and cultural exchange, noting that: “The character aspect can be challenging, but with dedication, you’ll find it easier to learn.”

Other winners of the competition were recognized in both English and Chinese categories.

English Category Winners: Third Prize (200,000 Naira): Chen Jun, Li Wei, and Qiu Liu Liu

Second Prize (300,000 Naira): Guan Xin and Wang Jia Yi

First Prize (500,000 Naira): Tan Jian

Chinese Category Winners: Third Prize (200,000 Naira): Yang Fan, Zhang Ji, and Deng Xiu Yuan.
Second Prize (300,000 Naira): Contestants Glory Livingston and Yang Xin.

The event which is organised annually underscored the strengthening ties between China and Nigeria through cultural exchange and mutual appreciation of music and language.

Nigerian Wins Chinese Singing Competition

PRESIDENT TINUBU AT ABUJA CARNIVAL LAUNCH: Creative Economy A Cornerstone Of My Diversification Agenda

*** Says industry now a major contributor to Nigeria’s non-oil GDP growth

By: Our Reporter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday identified the creative economy as a cornerstone of his administration’s economic diversification agenda.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning Nigeria’s creative sector as key driver of Nigeria’s global influence.

The President stated this during the launch of the 2024 Abuja International Carnival at Eagle Square, Abuja.

President Tinubu who was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, said, “We are not here just to celebrate a carnival but to reaffirm the essence of who we are as Nigerians—a people of culture, a people of art, a people of colour, and a people of shared values.”

The President reaffirmed the carnival’s role in strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global creative economy.

“Our creativity continues to shine on the global stage, drawing admiration and respect. This heritage is the truest measure of what it means to be Nigerian—proud, resourceful, and innovative,” he stated.

Under the theme, “Carnival of Renewed Hope: A Pledge to My Country,” the event showcased performances from across Nigeria and beyond, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to cultural diplomacy.

“The unifying power of art and culture on display here is a reflection of what we can achieve when we work together,” President Tinubu said.

The President emphasised the carnival’s economic impact, noting that Nigeria’s creative industries are already contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP.

“Over the years, this carnival has become a stage for showcasing our rich cultural heritage and a driving force behind our growing creative economy. It has revitalised local industries, fostered cultural diplomacy, and contributed immensely to Nigeria’s position as a cultural powerhouse on the global stage.”

Addressing international participants, Tinubu reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to cultural exchange, just as he said, “Their presence affirms that culture transcends boundaries, and it is through cultural exchange that we build bridges of understanding, friendship, and shared humanity. In this carnival, we offer not just a spectacle but a home away from home for our guests.”

The President called for deeper reflection on the event’s significance, noting that it is more than mere celebration: “A carnival of this scale is not merely an occasion for festivities; it is a call to action. It reminds us of the pledge we owe to our nation: to promote peace, preserve our unity, and contribute, in whatever way we can, to the Nigeria of our dreams.”

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, working alongside the Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Abuja International Carnival Secretariat, also received presidential commendation for their role in organizing the event.

President Tinubu praised their “dedication and vision in making the carnival a source of pride for our nation.”

“Our diversity is not just a mark of identity but a powerful force that strengthens our unity and inspires us to dream bigger for our country,” he added.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musawa explained that the carnival is a brand that binds Nigerians together and promotes the nation’s beauty and strength in diversity.

The Minister who was represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Oraelumo Obi Raphael, said, “The Carnival is a unique brand that involves the 36 states and the FCT, and countries from all over the world, with Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy as the Coordinating Ministry and the FCT as the host.

“The unique aspect of Abuja Carnival is the fact that it is a platform for artistic expression, innovation, and cultural exchange among local and international participants and the activities are highly competitive, which has given Nigerians the platform to develop and showcase their creative ingenuity as a tool for harnessing the power of culture and strengthening our nation’s bond to foster a brighter future.”

For the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, who was represented by the Director, Social Welfare in the FCTA, the theme of this year’s carnival, “Carnival of Renewed Hope: A Pledge to My Country,” is a call to action, a reminder and a promise, noting that it does not just celebrate the nation’s vibrant culture but also the spirit of resilience and hope that define Nigeria.

He said, ” As we gather here, adorned in the colours, sounds, and expressions of our diverse heritage, we are also united by a shared vision for Nigeria, a vision rooted in the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, of hope, renewal, and the commitment to work together toward a brighter future.

“The Abuja International Carnival is a testament to the power of culture in binding us together. It serves as a bridge, connecting generations, ethnicities, and regions across Nigeria.”

PRESIDENT TINUBU AT ABUJA CARNIVAL LAUNCH: Creative Economy A Cornerstone Of My Diversification Agenda