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Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit Charts Path for Stronger Economic Ties, Shared Prosperity

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Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit Charts Path for Stronger Economic Ties, Shared Prosperity

By: Michael Mike

The Afro-Caribbean Investment Summit, have marked a significant step in strengthening the ties between the two regions; Africa and the Caribbean, with a focus on sustainability, economic diversification, and collaboration for shared prosperity.

The historical event which took place in Abuja Nigeria, was organised by Aquarian Consult, in partnership with the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis, with theme, ‘bridging continents: Africa and the Caribbean, a partnership for prosperity.’

The event brought together political, business, and academic leaders from both Africa and the Caribbean to discuss the potential for deeper economic partnerships and long-term development.

Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrence Michael Drew while delivering his keynote address highlighted the deep-rooted connection between Africa and the Caribbean.

He described Africa not just as a distant relative to the Caribbean but as the “mother” of the region.

He called for a shift from occasional discussions to a more structured, sustained collaboration in economic, cultural, political, and spiritual areas.

Drew emphasized that both regions must chart a course toward greater cooperation, recognizing their shared stories, challenges, and potential.

He highlighted the importance of addressing climate change, noting that the Caribbean, like many parts of Africa, has already felt the devastating effects of global warming.

Drew presented the geothermal energy project in Nevis as a model for sustainable energy, aiming to reduce the region’s dependency on fossil fuels and promote renewable energy solutions. He proposed that this effort could serve as a model for both African nations and small island developing states across the globe.

“The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of global supply chains, especially in the food sector. In response, St. Kitts and Nevis has been investing in modernizing its agricultural systems with a focus on climate-resilient crops and sustainable farming techniques.

“We call on Africa’s agricultural expertise to partner in these efforts, joint research, farm exchanges, and technology partnerships could revolutionize food production for both regions.

“We need reform in our financial systems to support innovation and economic growth. Young entrepreneurs, women, and small businesses often struggle to access the capital needed to bring their ideas to life. It is importance we create innovative financial instruments, such as diaspora bonds and microfinance programs, which could foster economic independence and growth across the Afro-Caribbean bloc.”

Former President of Mauritius, Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, also emphasized on the structural challenges facing Africa. She noted that while Africa is home to vast natural resources and a growing youthful population, it accounts for a disproportionately small share of global trade and GDP.

Gurib-Fakim highlighted the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical step toward creating a unified market that could unlock Africa’s manufacturing potential.

However, she warned that Africa’s economic transformation would only be possible if the continent invests in science and technology and addresses its skills gap in order to meet the demands of the modern economy.

Gurib-Fakim also stressed the importance of education reform to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. She criticized the continent’s educational systems, which she argued “limits the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for success in knowledge-based economies.”

For her part, Ms. Aisha Maina, General Managing Director of Aquarian Consult, emphasized the concept of a “Global Africa,” referring to the shared identity and common heritage of people of African descent around the world.

She declared that the time has come for the Global South to invest in itself, reject externally imposed development metrics, and create its own standards for growth.

Maina called for greater collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean, not just in trade but in innovation and entrepreneurship.

She stressed that “both regions must come together, leveraging their collective strengths, to overcome historical divisions and forge a path toward mutual prosperity.”

Also, Prof. Benedict Okechukwu Oramah, President of the Africa Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank), reinforced the need for institutionalized cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean.

He highlighted the shared history of colonization and displacement, but also the immense potential for the two regions to collaborate on a global scale.

Oramah emphasized the role of Afreximbank in facilitating trade and investment, urging both regions to harness their natural resources and intellectual capital to build industries that can compete on the global stage.

Oramah concluded by stating that the unity of Africa and the Caribbean could form one of the world’s most powerful political and economic blocs, with the capacity to shape global affairs.

The summit, he said, “was a step toward creating a structured, organized framework for Afro-Caribbean collaboration, with the goal of increasing trade, innovation, and sustainable development.”

Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit Charts Path for Stronger Economic Ties, Shared Prosperity

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Troops sustain offensive in Magumeri, kill five terrorists, recover arms

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Troops sustain offensive in Magumeri, kill five terrorists, recover arms

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Joint Task Force North-East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have neutralised five Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists during a fierce encounter in the Magumeri axis of Borno State, as part of ongoing Operation Desert Sanity IV.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was launched following credible intelligence on the movement of terrorists marauding around Goni Dunari village in two vehicles and on foot, setting houses ablaze.

Acting promptly on the intelligence, the troops, in collaboration with the Magumeri Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), embarked on an aggressive fighting patrol to intercept the fleeing insurgents.

The sources said that on approaching the terrorists’ location, the insurgents attempted to escape toward Damjiyakiri village, prompting a sustained pursuit that lasted over four hours.

Upon making contact, the troops swiftly deployed into assault formation and opened fire on the fleeing terrorists, killing five on the spot while others scattered in disarray, many of them believed to be wounded judging from blood trails observed at the scene.

Items recovered from the encounter included one AK-47 rifle with registration number 06798, five magazines (three empty and two loaded), 31 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, one Itel mobile phone, and a dagger.

The sources confirmed that the troops recorded no casualties during the operation, and all equipment remained intact. The patrol covered a total distance of 92 kilometres before returning to base.

Operation Desert Sanity IV, currently ongoing across parts of northern Borno, forms part of a broader offensive to eliminate remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists still hiding within the fringes of the Lake Chad Basin and the Magumeri–Kukawa–Gubio axis.

Security analysts say the continued success of ground patrols under Operation Hadin Kai reflects improved coordination between the Nigerian Army, Air Component and local vigilante forces, contributing to the sustained stability across liberated communities in the state.

Troops sustain offensive in Magumeri, kill five terrorists, recover arms

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Dabiri-Erewa: Nigeria gained over N673 million worth of investments via Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit in 2024

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Dabiri-Erewa: Nigeria gained over N673 million worth of investments via Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit in 2024

By: Michael Mike

Nigeria gained over N673 million worth in Diaspora Investment Deals in 2024 through the efforts of the the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, the Chairman/CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa

Dabiri-Erewa, who briefed the media ahead of the NDIS 2025 Summit, also said the summit supported Nigeria’s local economy – contributing over ₦500 million to service providers, creatives, and SMEs engaged around the event since inception in 2018.

The NIDCOM boss also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu is expected as the guest of honour at this year’s Nigeria’s Diaspora Investment Summit scheduled for 11-13 November 2025 in Abuja.

She revealed that no fewer than 3,000 online and physical participants are expected to participate at the 8th edition of the Summit.

Dabiri-Erewa said with the Summit themed: “Fast-Tracking Regional and National Development by Mobilising Diaspora Investment,” “We are determined to build on this momentum. This year, we will continue to spotlight sectors critical to Nigeria’s transformation: Finance and Fintech; ICT; Creative Industries, Sports and Entertainment; Agribusiness; Healthcare; Education; Real Estate and Infrastructure; Manufacturing and Energy.”

She added that: “We are honoured that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will once again serve as the Special Guest of Honour and we anticipate the participation of distinguished business leaders, diaspora investors, policy champions, and creative icons who continue to inspire confidence in Nigeria’s potential.”

She noted that since the inception in 2018, the NDIS has become a trusted platform that fosters ‘direct, credible and impactful investments’ from the Nigerian diaspora into the local economy.

She said: “The last edition of the Summit, held in November 2024, showed just how much momentum NDIS has built over the years as it welcomed above 1,500 participants, both online and physically including 236 investors, 1,197 business owners and 168 government officials. Over the course of the Summit, a total of 56 pitches were presented across eight key sectors which highlighted the creativity, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians. These ideas were not just pitched but attracted about 168 deals worth about N673 million.

The Creative, Entertainment, and Sport sector stole the spotlight with 39 deals, showing just how much talent and energy Nigeria has to offer. But when it came to big money, Infrastructure and Real Estate led the way, securing about ₦201 million across 22 deals. Energy, though quieter with just four deals, still drew an impressive ₦172 million. Agribusiness made its mark too, with 28 deals bringing in ₦103 million. While the numbers are impressive, the true story lies in the impact these investments are having on everyday lives in Nigeria. They are helping to create jobs for young people, giving them opportunities to learn new skills and earn a living. They are helping businesses expand their operations, reach new markets, and become more competitive. For example, GAIN Business Incubator raised over ₦200 million to expand its operations. Xtralarge Farms secured international distribution deals through connections made at the Summit. Filmmakers like JohnMark Iyoo found mentors and pathways to bring Nigerian stories to a global audience.”

She noted that several state governments, including Ondo, Nasarawa, and Borno, have leveraged the Summit in previous years, to attract investors and advance major development projects, such as Ondo’s port initiative which later gained Federal Government approval.

She also pointed out that: “These outcomes show that NDIS is more than a conference; it is a catalyst for enterprise and sustainable partnership.”

She therefore called on Nigerians in the diaspora and those at home, to seize emerging investment opportunities through the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) and invest massively for Nigeria’s economic development.

She asserted that NDIS has grown beyond being a conference but as a catalyst for enterprise and sustainable development, which has fostered job creation, youth empowerment, and connecting Nigeria’s enormous talent pool to its development agenda.

On her part, Chairperson of the Nigeria Diaspora Summit Initiative (NDSI), Dr. Badewa Adejugbe-Williams noted that over the years, the summit has served as a vital bridge, attracting investments and unlocking the vast potential of the diaspora for Nigeria’s development.

She added that this year’s theme aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to diversify the nation’s economy and drive inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Dr. Adejugbe-Williams also encouraged new sponsors, investors, and media partners to amplify the message of the Summit and take advantage of the opportunities it presents.

Organised by NiDCOM with NDSI, the Summit connects Diaspora investors with local entrepreneurs across key sectors including Finance and Fintech, ICT, Creative Industries, Sports, Agribusiness, Healthcare, Education, Real Estate, Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Energy.

Meanwhile, all participants are urged to register at www.ndisng.com.

Dabiri-Erewa: Nigeria gained over N673 million worth of investments via Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit in 2024

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Police officer dies suddenly at Mararaba residence

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Police officer dies suddenly at Mararaba residence

By: Zagazola Makama

ASP Cyril Takim, 54, attached to the AIG Zone 7 Headquarters, FCT Abuja, has died suddenly at his residence in Aku Village Base 3, Mararaba.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that Takim reportedly slumped and became unconscious while using the bathroom on Thursday at about 2:50 p.m.

His son, Courage Takim Ogar, 21, immediately rushed him to the Medical Center, Mararaba, where he was examined by a doctor and certified dead.

Police detectives visited the scene and examined the body. No marks of violence or indications of foul play were observed. The corpse was deposited at the hospital morgue for preservation.

Police sources confirmed that the incident is classified as sudden and unnatural death, and no further suspicious circumstances have been reported.

Police officer dies suddenly at Mararaba residence

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