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At 4th ASIF Meeting, President Tinubu Demands Collective Action To Develop Africa
At 4th ASIF Meeting, President Tinubu Demands Collective Action To Develop Africa
** Urges relevant institutions to utilise continent’s sovereign wealth funds with sound financial discipline
By: Our Reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for collective action and regional cooperation among African countries in actualising transformative development on the continent.
Specifically, he said shrewd utilisation of sovereign wealth funds is crucial in ongoing efforts to close the infrastructure gap, build climate change resilience and create job opportunities for the growing youth population on the continent.
The President gave the charge on Monday in Abuja when he declared open the 4th Annual Meeting of the Africa Sovereign Investors Forum (ASIF), hosted by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).
President Tinubu who was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, noted that the forum’s meeting with the theme, “Leveraging African Sovereign Wealth Funds to Mobilise Global Capital for Transformative Development in Africa,” was holding at a time the world is witnessing rapid transformation and is under pressure to think outside the box.
For Africa, the Nigerian leader said it is time to position the continent to seize the opportunities rooted in the wave of global change, just as he asked African nations to take a cue from evolving sovereign wealth funds across the world, which have moved beyond serving as mere fiscal buffers to become architects of national transformation.
“Our future lies not in working in silos but in pursuing regional cooperation and collective ambition. Our sovereign wealth funds must become the anchors for pan-African investment platforms that de-risk projects, standardise processes, and deliver sustainable outcomes at scale. This is not just a strategy. This is a necessity,” he declared.
Acknowledging that Africa is currently facing a development dilemma, as it contends with limited fiscal space amid growing expectations and demands for long-term capital to fuel inclusive and sustainable growth, President Tinubu, however, identified creativity as a solution to the puzzle.
He said, “There can be no greater inspiration to reimagine how we invest, whether in setting up critical infrastructure, strengthening our climate resilience, promoting food security through agricultural innovation, supporting micro, small and medium enterprises, or embracing the digital economy to create jobs and expand opportunity.
“None of these is possible without catalytic institutions that combine strategic foresight with sound financial discipline. This is why the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority stands not only as a steward of our sovereign capital but as a vehicle for the delivery of strategic infrastructure.
“It is a catalyst in our national quest to redeem renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture, and much more. It is also a hub for pioneering innovative capital mobilisation solutions tailored to the realities of our continent.”
The President noted that ASIF has the pan-African apparatus to harness the collective strength of the continent’s sovereign investment institutions, just as he maintained that the time to act was now.
“We must act and act now to close the infrastructure gap, build resilience to climate change, and create jobs for our expanding youth population. This is precisely why platforms like the Africa Sovereign Investors Forum are not just relevant but essential.
“ASIF offers a pan-African mechanism to harness the collective strength of our sovereign investment institutions. It gives us the power to share knowledge, co-invest across borders, and speak with a unified voice in the global financial ecosystem. Through this kind of collaboration, we will attract the scale of capital required to unlock Africa’s latent potential,” he stated.
President Tinubu applauded the formal launch of the ASIF Investment Platform, saying it is a strategic initiative that deepens collaboration among Africa’s sovereign wealth funds.
The platform, according to him, is not just an innovative tool but also a bold move that pools the continent’s capital, expertise, and networks to mobilise financing for high-impact, cross-border projects, as well as “a step forward in advancing inclusive and sustainable development across the continent.”
He expressed delight that the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA, as a founding member of ASIF) has taken an active role in advancing the vision, even as he commended its leadership for “mobilising like-minded African funds and international partners to design long-term, impactful investment solutions”.
Earlier, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, listed priorities for stakeholders at the forum to include capital mobilisation at scale, regional and intercontinental collaboration, human capital and policy alignment, noting that they are critical for transformative development across the continent.
He expressed hope that the ASIF meeting would birth significant transactions that can mobilise the required resources, drive economic transformation across Africa, forge impactful partnerships and build a sustainable future.
In his remarks, President of AfreximBank, Prof. Benedict Oramah, emphasised the need for stakeholders to keep African sovereign wealth funds on the continent by investing in domestic markets.
He noted that the forum can help reshape Africa’s development financing in a manner that gives the continent greater opportunity to determine its development trajectory.
The AfreximBank boss dismissed insinuations that Africa does not have bankable projects, noting that the potential across the region is huge and the challenge lies with stakeholders, especially managers of sovereign wealth funds in the continent, to rethink strategies for investment, prioritising domestic investments.
On his part, Chairman of African Sovereign Investors Forum (ASIF), Mr Obaid Amrane, said while Africa is open for business, the forum is committed to facilitating the participation of sovereign investors in Africa’s transformation.
He said in just three years, ASIF has made significant strides in enhancing Africa’s global positioning, closing the infrastructure funding gaps across the continent and promoting greater collaboration among governments and sovereign investors in transformative projects that impact lives across the length and breadth of the region.
In his remarks, the Managing Director, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, Mr Aminu Umar-Sadiq, explained the focus of the meeting, noting that private capital plays a critical role in driving investments in infrastructure development on the continent.
He outlined the priority areas of the meeting and noted that the forum will catalyse investments across Africa and beyond, impacting lives through projects across diverse fields.
For his part, Pan-African activist, Prof. PLO Lumumba, called on leaders across Africa to leverage huge resources domiciled on the continent to invest in the future of unborn generations by investing more within the continent, noting that sovereign funds should be invested within and not outside Africa.
He said it is an intergenerational duty for political and economic leaders on the continent to cater for generations yet unborn, adding that Africa’s resources are inexhaustible, hence leaders must invest in the future of generations to come.
Also present at the event were Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; President/CEO of Africa Finance Corporation, Mr Samaila Zubairu; CEO & Special Representative of the UN Secretary General for Sustainable Energy for All and Co-Chair, UN-Energy, Ms Damilola Ogunbiyi; Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr Zacch Adedeji; CEO of Africa50, Mr Alain Ebonisse, and Director General, International Solar Alliance, Mr Ashish Khanna, among others.
At 4th ASIF Meeting, President Tinubu Demands Collective Action To Develop Africa
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
By:Michael Mike
The federal government has granted five months amnesty for regularisation of expired visas to allow travellers comply with the new visa regime.
A statement at the weekend by the public relations officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Akinsola Akinlabi said the amnesty would also reinforce a secure and transparent migration system.
The statement read: “The federal government through the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service, announces an Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty).
“This initiative provides a unique window for foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired immigration status to regularize their stay without facing penalties.”
He disclosed in the statement that the initiative, which commenced on 1st May 2025, would run through to 30th September 2025.
He further announced that the amnesty specifically apply to individuals who have either overstayed their visas or violated their visa conditions.
He gave the categories of those affected as: Foreign nationals with Expired Visa on Arrival (VoA); Holders of Expired Single and Multiple-Entry Visas and; Individuals with an Expired Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), where renewal has exceeded 30 days post-expiration.
Akinlabi urged all affected foreign nationals to promptly regularize their stay through
(https://amnesty.immigration.gov.ng) within the grace period to avoid overstay penalties.
He said, “To ensure the Amnesty application process is seamless, the Nigeria Immigration Service has assembled a support team to assist with Amnesty applications. Contact the support team via email at:amnesty@immigration.gov.ng
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to facilitating lawful migration, safeguarding National Security, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes.
“For further information kindly visit the Nigeria Immigration website www.immigration.gov.ng.”
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
National News
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
By: Zagazola Makama
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Army for its unflinching commitment to national unity, security, and sovereignty over the past 162 years, describing it as the “spine of Nigeria’s sovereignty” and a “symbol of unity and duty.”
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, gave the commendation on Sunday at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held in Kaduna.
The President said the anniversary was not merely a ceremonial occasion, but a moment of solemn reflection, history, and collective gratitude to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation.
“This is not another entry in our calendar of commemorations. It is a time of reflection, a time of remembrance, and a time of profound appreciation,” he said.
“A nation is only as strong as the courage of those who defend it. And for 162 years, the Nigerian Army has remained the unbreakable spine of our sovereignty.”
The President recalled the Army’s historic role in bringing the Nigerian Civil War to an end, upholding the principle of national unity, quoting former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s immortal words: “No victor, no vanquished.”
He emphasized that the Nigerian Army has continued to carry the national flag high, not for conquest but for peace, and not for power but for principle — both at home and in global peacekeeping missions.
“We honour the enduring sacrifices of those who gave their lives in service, and those who continue to bear the uniform with pride and resolve. You are the sentinels of our democracy,” Tinubu said.
He expressed full support for this year’s theme, “Developing the Soldier-Based Concept: A Priority for Nigerian Army’s Transformational Drive,” describing it as visionary and timely.
“You cannot build a great army without building strong soldiers. Their welfare, morale, equipment and sense of purpose are not afterthoughts; they are the bedrock of national security,” he said.
The President praised the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for prioritising the welfare of troops and placing the soldier at the heart of institutional reform.
Tinubu acknowledged the numerous security challenges confronting the country, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist agitations, which he described as existential threats that demand a united and resolute response.
“These evils do not discriminate by tribe or religion. They destroy churches and mosques alike. They abduct children without asking how they worship,” he said.
“Our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising. And to the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this clearly: the time to rise is now. You have my full authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.”
The President paid tribute to fallen soldiers, some of whom now lie in the soil of a grateful nation, and others who carry the wounds of battle.
“To the families they left behind, I extend the deepest sympathies of a nation that will never forget. Their memory will endure for generations,” he said.
He urged serving personnel to continue in honour, guided by the Constitution and the principles of international law, saying their courage must remain anchored in justice.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, training, and operational capability of the Armed Forces.
“We will continue to invest in modern equipment, in intelligence, and in the human capital that drives your effectiveness. This is not a favour; it is a duty owed to those who defend us,” he said.
He further commended the Armed Forces’ synergy, especially with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, in tackling complex national threats.
Tinubu reminded all Nigerians that securing the country is not the burden of the military alone, but the responsibility of every citizen.
“We have no other country but Nigeria, and we must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay. Nation-building is the work of every leader, every institution, and every citizen,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu saluted all officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, past and present, describing them as “the guardians of our nationhood and the shield of our democracy.”
“Long live the Nigerian Army. Long live the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he declared.
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
UN Agency Gives USD 395,000 to 39 Land Restoration Projects Worldwide
By: Michael Mike
In a decisive step to reverse land degradation, 39 land restoration projects led by grassroots organisations have been awarded USD 395,000 through the inaugural Small Grants Programme of the G20 Global Land Initiative (GLI), a flagship initiative of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
Drawn from 22 countries, the winning projects were selected for their innovation, impact and sustainability. Over 650 organisations from more than 100 countries applied for the award. The winners were selected following three rounds of review by separate UNCCD staff teams, with varied expertise in land management and restoration.
Awardees will receive between US$5,000 and US$15,000 to fund grassroots efforts that boost local economies, improve food and water security and strengthen ecosystem resilience.
The announcement was livestreamed at an event showcasing the grant winners.
The Small Grants Programme is an important tool for achieving the G20 GLI’s mission of reducing degraded land by 50 percent by 2040.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Director of the G20 Global Land Initiative,Dr. Muralee Thummarukudy, said: “We are aware that these big numbers, cannot be achieved by small initiatives alone. Yet, we feel, it is important that tens of thousands of small actors, engaged in land restoration around the world, be supported, promoted and recognized,”
Special priority was given to organisations accredited to UNCCD and to projects empowering Indigenous Peoples, youth, women and the elderly.
The programme was set up in 2024 to support community-level non-profit organisations worldwide. According to a statement, by directly supporting civil society and grassroot actors, these grants will generate measurable progress across global aided restoration priorities, such as soil fertility enhancement, forest regeneration, sustainable agriculture, agroecology and ecosystem-based adaptation.
The statement added that beyond reclaiming land, the projects are enhancing livelihoods, strengthening community climate resilience, and fostering social enterprise and eco-preneurship.
“When we do these small grants program, it is not just about the grant. It’s about the network which we create and the visibility it provides — both for those within it and those outside who can benefit from their knowledge and experience,” Thummarukudy added.
Three of the highest-scoring projects were showcased at the UNCCD Conference of the Parties held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in December 2024, to highlight their potential for scaling and replication across regions.
The statement also revealed that winners will also be showcased at select high-level events in the future, stating that the G20 GLI is committed to inclusive and continuous engagement, and is exploring future
collaboration opportunities for the applicants not selected in this round.
Stressing that “this is just the beginning, this will be an annual process, the next cohort is about to start,” Dr Thummarukudy invited community organisations doing land restoration to apply to join the network because both “big and small” [efforts] are important.
He noted that the second call for applications will open in 2025 with increased funding and expanded
support for grassroots restoration efforts worldwide.
Innovative community-led restoration initiatives are essential for creating green jobs, especially for youth and women..The awards provide support that can transform restoration into a catalyst for economic opportunity and sustainable environmental management.
Examples of selected 2024 grantees include: Legacy of War Foundation (Rwanda), which will restore six hectares of degraded soil while empowering 90 women as landowners of fully organic cooperative farms. By integrating climate-smart and artisanal farming methods, the project aims to improve soil fertility and agricultural resilience in post-conflict rural communities.
Up2Green Foundation (India) is restoring mangroves and riverbanks in Tamil Nadu, India. The project is reforesting 60 hectares and planting 15,000 fruit trees, enhancing biodiversity, strengthening coastal resilience for flood prevention, and training local communities in sustainable agroforestry practices.
Sustainability and Environmental Studies Endeavor (Nepal) is working to restore
ecological balance along the mythological Nagaraj Trail. By revitalizing degraded farms, wetlands and forests using nature-based solutions, the project promotes nature-inclusive agriculture and convivial conservation approaches.
The G20 Global Land Initiative was launched in 2020 under the Saudi G20 Presidency. Hosted by the UNCCD, its ambition is to reduce degraded land by 50 percent by 2040. By showcasing
land restoration, empowering civil society, engaging the private sector and building capacity, G20 GLI is driving restoration to scale and energizing a restoration economy. The Small Grants Programme is a key component of this vision, empowering civil society to restore degraded lands and promote sustainable land management at scale.
UN Agency Gives USD 395,000 to 39 Land Restoration Projects Worldwide
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Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
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