National News
ECOWAS Countries Need to Rally Together on Biodiversity, Climate Change to Ward Off Environmental Disaster, Insists Nigeria
ECOWAS Countries Need to Rally Together on Biodiversity, Climate Change to Ward Off Environmental Disaster, Insists Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has called all other members of Economic Community Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to rally behind her to find solution to biodiversity and climate change to ward off environmental disaster that is not only threatening the region but the entire planet.
The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salami made the call on Monday while giving his opening remarks at the coordination meeting held in Abuja of ECOWAS Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ).
He said: “Our oceans require strong protection that can only be achieved through a new treaty for the conservation and management of marine life in the high seas. This treaty must ensure that human activities are managed to prevent significant adverse impacts, with vigorous oversight mechanisms and provisions to establish fully and highly protected MPAs in the high seas.”
He admitted that: “With the adoption of the high-seas treaty last June, we are one step closer to achieving our goals. In September this year, at the High Ambition for the High Seas event on the sideline of UNGA, Nigeria joined other 22 countries to symbolically sign a commitment to ratify the BBNJ treaty. We must now rally to ratify the new high-seas treaty promptly so it can come into force.”
Salako added that: “We are proud that through Nigeria’s rallying efforts, the 55 member States of the African Union have reached a consensus to support ratifying at the earliest feasible date, the new high-seas treaty, as enshrined in Addis Ababa Declaration adopted at the 19th ordinary session of Africa Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN). Three months since the 19th AMCEN, we should move from saying earliest feasible date to a more specific period for Africa to ratify the BBNJ treaty. ECOWAS can lead the way in this direction.”
He said: “I’m honored to welcome you all to Nigeria as we once again gather to find solutions to the biodiversity and climate crisis that is gripping our planet, our subregion not exempted.
“They are part of the same crisis, and we cannot solve one without solving the other.”
The status of the world’s oceans today is a clear indication of this dire interaction, he stressed, noting that: “Our oceans are under threat today more than ever before with sea level rise, temperature increases, acidification, pollution, biodiversity loss, unsustainable exploitation of marine resources, depletion of fish stocks, the near disappearance of coral reefs, and the destruction of fragile ecosystems.
“The urgent need to address this threat has led Nigeria and its sister ECOWAS member nations to unite and call on the international community to be more ambitious in its response.
“Our appeal for an ambitious global response to the biodiversity crisis is urgent and focused.
“Through the urgent appeal, we had identified several measures as essential, including the global designation of 30% of land and oceans areas as protected by 2030, the conclusion of a robust new high-seas treaty, the establishment of highly and fully protected areas covering 30% of the global ocean which prohibit environmentally damaging activities, and a global commitment towards immediately halting human-induced extinction of wild species, among others.”
The Minister acknowledged that today, only 7% of the world’s oceans are protected, adding that there are no comprehensive legal mechanisms in place to protect the high seas and the deep seabed areas, the shared international areas of oceans that lie beyond national jurisdictions and that include almost 70% of the global ocean.
Salako said: “The meeting you are attending today provides a pathway to support ECOWAS countries in reaching this important goal. Prompt ratification of the high-seas treaty and effective engagement in its implementation is an urgent priority for the preservation of our oceans.
“We have a shared responsibility to act and protect the oceans because we all share in the benefits provided by our oceans and because we all share in the harm that comes when degraded coastal and marine ecosystems threaten the physical, economic, food security of local communities, and multinational businesses. Failing to protect our oceans would be catastrophic.”
Salako, reiterated that if the challenge is not addressed, the impacts for people will be profound, while expressing optimism, he said: “It is my sincere hope that you can work together in the next few days to make swift, real progress towards setting a path for prompt ratification of the high-seas treaty in our region and on our continent.
“We must act to protect our oceans now, and we must be bold if we have any hope of preserving our planet for our people and our future generation.”
The Minister advocated that member states should lead the way together for nature, adding that government through the Ministry is committed to ratifying BBNJ treaty in line with the focus of President Bola Tinubu to pursue development by unlocking the energy and natural resources of the nation in a sustainable manner.
Earlier, Director, Environment Department, ECOWAS, Moussa Leko, noted that the meeting is a natural follow-up to other coordination meetings organized by ECOWAS to support its members states in their joint efforts promoting ambition for the world’s response to the biodiversity crisis at CITES and at CBD.
He said: “Having carefully reviewed the outcomes of both the CBD CoP15 meeting, and the CITES CoP19 meeting, I can directly see that West Africa is a leading voice for biodiversity protection globally. Not only that, but our region is demonstrating collaboration, expertise, and strength in its advocacy for our natural heritage.”
He noted that: “The ambition of ECOWAS countries has been instrumental in securing positive outcomes from the CITES and CBD meetings and we see our positions clearly reflected in the decisions adopted by the global community. For this, the ECOWAS Commission owes you a sincere debt of gratitude. You are worthy biodiversity ambassadors for our wonderful West African region.”
He however added that: “The task upon us today is to ensure that the vital ECOWAS Appeal to the Global community, calling for an Ambitious Global Response to the Biodiversity Crisis continues to be heard loud and clear. This appeal represents a fundamental truth, which is that we must take robust action now, to protect our planet.
“We must urgently protect biodiversity in order to preserve ecosystem services vital to human well-being, and the livelihood of our local communities. Losing these services or standing idle while our communities go impoverished and hungry would result in an unimaginable future. It cannot be considered an option.
I encourage you to continue expanding your coordination to ensure our region is provided all the tools it needs to implement an ambitious Global Biodiversity Framework and an ambitious CITES agenda.
“We are ready to strengthen and expand our protected areas, we are ready to protect and recover our wild species. We are ready to act to protect our biodiversity, our ecosystem services, our magical and unique environments.”
ECOWAS Countries Need to Rally Together on Biodiversity, Climate Change to Ward Off Environmental Disaster, Insists Nigeria
National News
NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army
NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army
By: Michael Mike
Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has congratulated Amanda Azubuike on her historic promotion to Brigadier General in the United States Army.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s Head, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun on Sunday, Dabiri-Erewa lauded Azubuike’s remarkable achievement as a testament to her dedication, resilience, and exceptional service.
Born in London to a Nigerian father and a Zimbabwean mother, Azubuike’s journey is a source of pride for Nigerians worldwide.
She joined the U.S. Army in 1994, becoming an aviator after completing the Army Aviation Officer Basic Course.
Over her distinguished career, she has held pivotal roles, including serving as a platoon leader, flight operations officer, and public affairs officer. She currently serves as Deputy Commanding Officer at the U.S. Army Cadet Command.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the significance of Azubuike’s promotion, stating, “Amanda’s elevation to Brigadier General not only shatters glass ceilings but also highlights the invaluable contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to global advancements.”
The NiDCOM Chairman urged Nigerians worldwide to draw inspiration from Azubuike’s accomplishment, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and excellence in their respective endeavours.
NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army
National News
VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs
VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs
…MSME the only way to strengthen the resilience of our people – Zulum
By: Our Reporter
Borno State entrepreneurs participating in the 6th Expanded National MSME Clinics and Fashion Hub will receive an unconditional grant of N300,000 each to support and enhance their businesses.
This was announced by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, during the official opening of the event on Tuesday at the Government House in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Senator Shettima revealed that each of the outstanding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that participated in the exhibition would be eligible for the N300,000 grant. “I am pleased to announce on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that an unconditional grant of N300,000 will be awarded to each outstanding MSME exhibiting at today’s clinic,” he stated.
The Vice President further explained that the Borno State centre is part of the ongoing national initiative to establish Expanded National MSME Clinics across the country. He assured that the grants are non-repayable, reflecting the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the success and sustainability of small businesses in the region.
Senator Shettima also highlighted the newly inaugurated Borno State Fashion Hub, which he said has the capacity to create up to 48,000 jobs annually, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing the MSME ecosystem in the state, particularly in the fashion industry.
“This hub is among the largest ever established by the Federal Government, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support the fashion manufacturing cluster in Borno State,” he added.
In a remark, Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, noted that his administration has adopted an inclusive approach to support small and medium scale businesses, recognising it as essential to strengthening resilience amid the challenges faced by MSMEs.
Governor Zulum acknowledged that MSMEs in Borno State have faced severe hardships due to the prolonged insurgency and the broader economic challenges in the country.
“The MSME Clinic will revitalise business activities in Borno State, create employment opportunities, and increase income sources for our people,” Governor Zulum said.
“Our government is committed to providing more opportunities for our people to expand their income sources.”
Governor Zulum also outlined several initiatives by his administration, including the disbursement of soft loans to empower entrepreneurs, the construction of modern markets, the establishment of vocational training institutions, and the renovation of skill acquisition centres damaged during the insurgency.
The Governor expressed optimism that the MSME Clinics would focus on five key areas: funding, skill development, infrastructure, access to markets, and technology. Additionally, the clinics will provide business registration, training, and mentorship services to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
“The expansion of this Clinic is not just a project; it is a demonstration of our belief in the creativity and resilience of the entrepreneurs in Borno State and Nigeria. When MSMEs thrive, they create jobs, reduce poverty, and drive innovation across sectors,” Governor Zulum said.
“These strategies are designed to address challenges and unlock the full potential of our entrepreneurial systems.”
Governor Zulum also urged entrepreneurs and business owners to fully utilise the resources provided by the MSME Clinic to grow their businesses, enhance their skills, and explore new opportunities.
Before the programme, Vice President Kashim Shettima commissioned the Borno State Fashion Hub at the defunct Kashim Ibrahim College of Education and WEMA Bank partnership branch.
Dignitaries that accompanied the VP include the minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of State Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMES, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson.
VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs
2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
A 2.5 million eggs per-day production poultry farm is to be built in Nigeria by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC).
This is one of the major highlights of the ongoing visit led by the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe to China.
According to a statement on Monday, the delegation at a meeting with Chilwee Group scored a significant mileage during a visit to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.
The statement read: “The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has made significant strides in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting economic cooperation between Nigeria and China. Recent agreements and investments in the energy, technology, and manufacturing sectors are poised to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.
“At the forefront of these developments is the agreement between the NCSP and Chilwee Group, a prominent Chinese manufacturer of cutting-edge batteries and power storage solutions. This agreement is expected to enhance Nigeria’s energy security, promote renewable energy, and reduce carbon emissions. Chilwee Group has committed to investing in Nigeria through a multifaceted approach, including sales, manufacturing, and potentially mining raw materials for the power storage value chain.
“In addition to the agreement with Chilwee Group, the NCSP has also made significant progress in other areas. During a recent visit to China, the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe, led a delegation to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.
“Also, the NCSP facilitated a tripartite agreement between CPL Medical group, CSSC Haishen Medical Technology Co Ltd and China Habour Engineering Company over the renovation and upgrading of equipment in selected teaching hospitals across the country. While speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Tegbe noted that the agreement represented an example of private-sector collaboration which the partnership hopes to promote.
The statement also revealed that the NCSP delegation also visited China Electronic Corporation, where Tegbe expressed optimism about cooperation between Nigeria and China in areas such as electronics equipment, public security surveillance, and identity management. He emphasized the potential for collaboration, stating that he has President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to identify top-priority projects that will drive Nigeria’s industrialization.
The NCSP delegation was also at Huawei, where they discussed opportunities for collaboration in the ICT sector, including training programmes and the deployment of smart city models. With the imminent deployment of the smart city model presented by Huawei to President Tinubu in Beijing, Nigeria is set to reap the benefits of the investments of Huawei in Nigeria and her partnership with the Tinubu-led administration.
These benefits include smart, qualitative education, better healthcare delivery, enhanced communications technology, improved security infrastructure, and digitalization of key government facilities. The NCSP also met with representatives from Loong UAV, a global leader in tactical drone solutions, to explore opportunities for cooperation in the field of drone technology.
The cooperation with Loong UAV is expected to bolster Nigeria’s domestic capabilities in drone technology, facilitating access to essential services and commodities in remote or hard-to-reach regions. This innovative use of drones could significantly enhance Nigeria’s logistical capabilities, creating new opportunities for economic growth and development.
According to the statement: “Overall, these agreements and investments demonstrate the NCSP’s commitment to driving Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments. By focusing on creating value-driven partnerships, strengthening Nigeria’s role in Africa’s industrialization, and coordinating initiatives that align with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the NCSP is poised to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development in Nigeria.”
2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria
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