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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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Cuba Accuses U.S. of Military Aggression Against Venezuela, Pledges Unwavering Support

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Cuba Accuses U.S. of Military Aggression Against Venezuela, Pledges Unwavering Support

By: Michael Mike

Cuba has issued a fierce condemnation of what it claims was a military attack by the United States on Venezuela, describing the alleged action as a serious breach of international law and a threat to regional peace.

In an official statement released in Havana on Saturday, the Cuban Revolutionary Government said it stood in full solidarity with Venezuela and its leadership, backing calls by Caracas for proof of life of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. Cuba also demanded their immediate release, alleging they were being held by U.S. authorities.

Havana characterised the reported operation as a “cowardly and criminal act,” accusing Washington of escalating a long-running campaign of pressure and hostility against Venezuela.

According to the statement, U.S. actions in the Caribbean intensified from September 2025, including increased naval activity justified by what Cuba called unfounded allegations.

The Cuban government said the alleged aggression was driven by imperial ambitions, claiming it was aimed at asserting dominance over Latin America and gaining access to Venezuela’s vast natural resources. It warned that the move was intended not only to undermine Venezuela’s sovereignty but also to intimidate other governments in the region.

Cuba placed responsibility for any deaths or damage resulting from the situation on the U.S. administration, naming President Donald Trump and senior officials as accountable for the consequences of what it described as reckless actions.

Recalling the 2014 Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, signed in Havana by regional governments, Cuba said the current developments represented a direct challenge to that collective commitment.

The statement urged the international community to reject what it called an unlawful act against a United Nations member state, warning that allowing such an action to go unanswered would set a dangerous precedent. Cuba stressed that Venezuela had not attacked the United States or posed a military threat.

Reaffirming its close alliance with Caracas, Cuba said it remained prepared to support Venezuela in defending its independence and sovereignty, calling on governments, parliaments and social movements worldwide to condemn the alleged aggression.

Cuba Accuses U.S. of Military Aggression Against Venezuela, Pledges Unwavering Support

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Ex-Lawmaker Says Tinubu Deserves For Erecting Solid Foundation for Sustainable Economic Recovery

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Ex-Lawmaker Says Tinubu Deserves For Erecting Solid Foundation for Sustainable Economic Recovery

By: Michael Mike

President Bola Tinubu has been described as deserving of reelection for putting in place a solid foundation for sustainable economic recovery.

Speaking during a family thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Methodist Church, Obuohia Obi-Ibere, in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, a member of the Governing Board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo stated that the present administration of President Bola Tinubu has laid a solid foundation for sustainable economic recovery and should be considered for reelection come 2027.

He however noted that the president’s policies, though challenging, are already producing positive outcomes.

According to the former federal lawmaker, key economic indicators show gradual improvement, citing official data which he said indicate a moderation in inflation, declining food prices and progress in stabilising the foreign exchange market through the unification of rates.

He also pointed to the removal of fuel subsidy as a major reform that has helped eliminate the persistent fuel queues that usually accompany festive periods, noting that motorists now access petrol more easily, with filling stations competing for customers.

Onuigbo expressed confidence that Nigerians would reward what he described as courageous leadership at the polls in 2027, insisting that continuity is necessary to fully realise the benefits of the ongoing reforms.

The former two-term member of the House of Representatives, who represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, said the thanksgiving was organised to appreciate God for His guidance and protection over his family despite years of political and personal challenges.

He announced plans to rebuild the church in his community as a mark of gratitude, describing the gesture as part of his commitment to giving back.

In his sermon, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Aba, urged Christians to live lives of gratitude and humility, encouraging them to acknowledge God’s role in their successes.

The thanksgiving service was attended by several political leaders, including Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and Senator Austin Akobundu of Abia Central, among others.

Ex-Lawmaker Says Tinubu Deserves For Erecting Solid Foundation for Sustainable Economic Recovery

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Zulum Celebrates Christmas with Frontline Soldiers in Malam Fatori, Reaffirms Commitment to Troops Welfare

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Zulum Celebrates Christmas with Frontline Soldiers in Malam Fatori, Reaffirms Commitment to Troops Welfare

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has marked Christmas on Thursday by visiting frontline troops of the Nigerian Army’s 68 Battalion in the strategic border town of Malam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area.

The Governor has spent the preceding four days traversing northern Borno, coordinating security measures and strengthening the resilience of returning communities. As part of his administration’s commitment to restoring civil authority, he spent the night in the newly resettled town, engaging with community leaders and residents.

His visit to the battalion, coinciding with the festive season, served as a symbolic and reassuring gesture to soldiers stationed far from their families under challenging operational conditions.

Governor Zulum commended the officers and men for their gallantry, resilience, and professionalism, stating that their sacrifices had ensured the survival and stability of Malam Fatori. He described them as the true guardians of peace, whose courage had enabled displaced communities to return and rebuild.

“Celebrating Christmas with the troops protecting our territorial integrity is not merely ceremonial, but a deliberate effort to stand with you at the point of sacrifice,” Governor Zulum said.

He added: “The courage you display daily in securing Malam Fatori and other frontline locations continues to inspire the state’s commitment to supporting security agencies until lasting peace is achieved.”

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support for the armed forces, assuring the battalion of continued logistical and welfare assistance to complement federal efforts.

“Let me reiterate that security remains the top priority of my administration,” he stated, stressing that without peace, development and recovery would be impossible.

In the spirit of the season, Governor Zulum donated five bulls to the battalion to enable the troops to celebrate with dignity. In a rare personal gesture, he joined the soldiers in line, sharing a meal with them within the base.

The visit elicited widespread jubilation from the troops, many of whom expressed renewed morale at the Governor’s presence and personal engagement. For soldiers long separated from their families, the occasion served as a powerful reminder that their sacrifices are seen, valued, and appreciated.

The Governor was accompanied by the member House of Assembly representing Abadam State Constituency, Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Honourable Sugun Mai Mele and the Director General Borno State Emergency Management Agency.

Zulum Celebrates Christmas with Frontline Soldiers in Malam Fatori, Reaffirms Commitment to Troops Welfare

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