News
ECOWAS Launches AfricDeezayn App to Boost Creativity and Talent in West Africa
ECOWAS Launches AfricDeezayn App to Boost Creativity and Talent in West Africa
By: Michael Mike
AfricDeezayn application has been officially launched in West Africa to provide a virtual online space for designers in the subregion to showcase their creativity and talent and interact as a community.
The project, which is a creation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is supported by Japan and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).
Speaking at the launch in Abuja on Tuesday, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mrs. Massandje Toure-Litse said AfricDeezayn (a digital tool) will enabled talented designers in West Africa to contribute to the region’s industrial development by stimulating innovation.
Toure-Litse, who was represented by Dr. Anthony Elumelu, said “a design is the intentional creation of solutions with a focus on aesthetics, functionality and user experience. It goes beyond visual appearance to include usability, ergonomics, accessibility and other aspects that influence the way we, as users, interact with a product or service.”
She explained that it can be applied to a range of fields, including graphic design, industrial design, user experience design, user interface design and service design, all with a view to seducing consumers and maintaining their trust.
She noted that AfricDeezayn application developed in collaboration with WIPO and funded by Japan is closely aligned with the vision of ECOWAS to promote technological innovation, job creation and creation of an appropriate environment which will lead to wealth and economic and social progress.
She said the project was in line with ECOWAS Commission’s aims of promoting sustainable and inclusive agricultural, industrial and intellectual productivity, adding that: “This is an opportunity for us to call on the private sector players in our region, particularly those in the Design Community, to take ownership of this tool and use it as a potential vector for innovation and improved productivity.”
On his part, the Senior Director, Department for Trademarks, Industrial Designs and Geographical Indications (DTIDGI), Brands and Designs Sector (BDS), World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), Mr. Marcus Hopperger, said “AfricDeezayn is a bridge between us and the people that are at the core of our institutional efforts. We represent organisations committed to promoting IP as a tool for development and growth. AfricDeezayn opens to us the virtual world of communication, helping our outreach to key stakeholders of the Design ecosystem – designers, small and large businesses, IP practitioners and agents, the academe, women and youth groups – to more effectively address their information needs so that IP rights over designs are protected and the resulting benefits are fully enjoyed by their creators.”
He added that: “They will find in AfricDeezayn an educational hub for learning about design laws, with guides in navigating the process of applying for and registering designs to obtain their protection.
“AfricDeezayn does more than inform. It also shares the stories of many designers, whether young and mature entrepreneurs – their struggles and rewards, their aspirations and journey – these are well-springs of inspiration and motivation for fellow West African artists and design enthusiasts.”
He noted that: “AfricDeezayn is the first platform in West Africa (and most likely the African continent) that is not only dedicated to Designs-related information, it also offers the Design communities in the ECOWAS countries a forum to connect with each other. AfricDeezayn honours the creative spirit of West Africa and its rich cultural heritage – and the men and women forming part of these communities. They deserve a platform through which they can easily get in touch with each other on any design-related issues while being supported in their communication needs.
“Better still, AfricDeezayn allocates space for designers to showcase their creations for optimal online visibility, empowering them to thrive in the competitive world of business and potentially generating commercial possibilities.”
He added that: “As the design communities in West Africa flourish, AfricDeezayn is their get-go tool throughout their creative journey. AfricDeezayn’s strength lies in its ability to enable designers across West Africa and beyond, transcending geographical boundaries. The prevalence of mobile phones in the region and the African continent makes AfricDeezayn a vital resource accessible to all. Recent statistics highlight the remarkable growth of IP activity in West Africa. According to World Intellectual Property Indicators [published by WIPO], the annual growth rates for the number of designs in 2022 were particularly high at the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) with a growth rate of 49.4% and at the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) with a growth rate of 8.8%. We are confident that progress will continue and that the advent of AfricDeezayn will contribute to the efforts in the region, especially through ECOWAS and its Member States.”
“I encourage everyone to download AfricDeezayn on Google Play and to spread the news. Let us usher in a movement where creativity is celebrated, protected, and empowered, while leveraging available technologies in the process. Today, we are not just launching an app, we are embracing the vast possibilities of virtual communication in mobile form to best serve our design stakeholders,” he said.
Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Matsunaga Kazuyoshi said AfricDeezayn will create great opportunity for development in West Africa, noting that with resources like AfricDeezayn, designers in the ECOWAS region
can achieve great wealth.
He said: “This app isn’t just about information, it’s a catalyst for connection within the global design community.
This innovative platform, the first of its kind, connects designers with
opportunities, funding and businesses, fostering collaboration and a
robust design ecosystem in the ECOWAS region and beyond.”
He added that: “This initiative, born out of the joint efforts of the ECOWAS region
and WIPO, is revolutionising the way intellectual property is understood and used around the world. Its impact extends beyond the region and promises to raise
awareness and practice of design throughout Africa.”
ECOWAS Launches AfricDeezayn App to Boost Creativity and Talent in West Africa
News
IPOB attacks police patrol teams in Anambra, snatches rifles, and abandons stolen SUV after shootout
IPOB attacks police patrol teams in Anambra, snatches rifles, and abandons stolen SUV after shootout
By: Zagazola Makama
Suspected members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN militia on Wednesday launched a coordinated armed attack on joint police patrol teams along the Abatete–Eziowelle road in Anambra State, injuring an officer and carting away two service rifles.
Zagazola gathered that the gunmen, armed with general-purpose machine guns and AK-47 rifles, operated with a white Toyota Hummer bus, a black Lexus 350 SUV, and a white Toyota Highlander, all with registration numbers yet to be identified.
The attackers, dressed in full military and police uniforms, opened heavy fire on personnel from the Department of Operations (DOPS), State Headquarters, Awka, and the Special Anti-Cultism Squad. The patrol teams engaged the militants in a fierce gun duel, forcing them to retreat.
During the exchange of fire, rounds fired by the assailants struck the patrol bus of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad, setting it ablaze, while the DOPS patrol pickup van was sprayed with bullets and damaged.
Sources said that during the operation, Insp. Uduak Anthony of MOPOL 29 Awka, attached to the DOPS patrol team, lost his Type 06 rifle (Breech No. 10967) loaded with 35 rounds of ammunition after it slipped from his grip as he dashed for cover. The weapon was carted away by the militants.
As the gunmen fled, they reportedly snatched a Mercedes Benz SUV from a motorist, Eze Tochukwu, from Enugu State, and headed towards Umuoji in Idemili North LGA.
At Umuoji, the attackers sighted two police inspectors attached to former Anambra Governor and ex-Minister of Labour, Senator Chris Ngige. The officers, Insp. Eniobong Roberts of 29 PMF Awka and Insp. Udezike Kingsley of DOPS, were travelling in a vehicle when the militants double-crossed them and opened fire.
Insp. Udezike was shot in the left leg as he attempted to take cover, and his AK-47 rifle was stolen. Insp. Roberts engaged the attackers, forcing them to abandon the snatched Mercedes Benz SUV, which was later recovered by police.
The injured officer is currently receiving treatment at Crown Hospital, Nkpor, and is responding well.
A senior police officer revealed that the Command’s tactical units have been fully activated and are “currently combing suspected hideouts, camps, and escape routes of the terrorists” to arrest the attackers and recover the stolen firearms.
IPOB attacks police patrol teams in Anambra, snatches rifles, and abandons stolen SUV after shootout
HONORARY CONSULATE REPUBLIC OF CÔTE D’IVOIRE – MALTA
By: Michael Mike
Honorary Consulate of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Paradigm Communications Ltd. | Paradigm News, an International Media Partner of ECOWAS Commission, Foreign Affairs Ministry in Nigeria, Germany Embassy in Nigeria and CDD/ WADEMOS West Africa.
The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta and Paradigm News, a publication of Paradigm Communications Ltd., have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a strategic media partnership aimed at enhancing visibility, communication, and public engagement surrounding the Consulate’s diplomatic activities in Malta and internationally.
Under this agreement, Paradigm News is officially accredited as the African Media House for the Honorary Consulate of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta. The partnership reinforces a shared commitment to strengthening diplomatic communication, promoting Côte d’Ivoire’s interests, and supporting accurate, responsible journalism across regional and global platforms.
Speaking at the signing, H.E. Mrqs. Anthony C. Coleiro, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta, emphasized the significance of the collaboration:
“This partnership marks an important milestone in reinforcing Côte d’Ivoire’s presence and engagement in Malta. Through Paradigm News’ professional coverage, we aim to ensure that our diplomatic initiatives, bilateral engagements, and cultural activities receive the visibility and clarity they deserve.”
Representing Paradigm Communications Ltd., H.E. Ambassador Raymond Enoch noted:
“We are honoured to serve as the official African Media House for the Consulate. Paradigm News is committed to providing accurate, ethical, and comprehensive coverage that reflects the diplomatic aspirations and international outreach of Côte d’Ivoire.”
Scope of the Partnership
Through the MoU, Paradigm News will:
Provide professional coverage of the Consulate’s diplomatic activities, official events, and public engagements. Report on governmental delegations from Côte d’Ivoire visiting Malta and cover international conferences, summits, and events involving the Consulate. Notwithstanding publishing of information related to bilateral cooperation, cultural programmes, business initiatives and disseminate content through its regional and global media channels.
The Consulate, in turn, will:
Grant Paradigm News official accreditation as its African Media House, providing timely press releases, updates, and access to relevant events, subject to protocol. The Consulate will recognize / Paradigm Communications Ltd. as its media partner in appropriate communications and events.
Both parties commit to maintaining professionalism, transparency, and respect for diplomatic sensitivities, ensuring that all published material reflects accuracy and integrity.
About the Honorary Consulate of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta:
The Honorary Consulate works to strengthen bilateral relations between the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire and Malta, promoting diplomatic cooperation, business engagement, cultural exchange, and support for Ivorian nationals.
About Paradigm News / Paradigm Communications Ltd.
Paradigm News is a respected media organization committed to delivering global news and insights. Through its international correspondents and editorial network, Paradigm News covers stories of local, regional, and global relevance with accuracy, neutrality, and journalistic professionalism. Paradigm News International is a Media Partner of ECOWAS Commission, Foreign Affairs Ministry in Nigeria, Germany Embassy in Nigeria and CDD/ WADEMOS West Africa.
HONORARY CONSULATE REPUBLIC OF CÔTE D’IVOIRE – MALTA
News
EU–IDEA, Stakeholders Call for Urgent Review of Social Development Act, Seek National Alignment
EU–IDEA, Stakeholders Call for Urgent Review of Social Development Act, Seek National Alignment
By: Michael Mike
The European Union- International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (EU-IIDEA), as well as relevant stakeholders has called for an urgent review of Nigeria’s Social Development Act (SDA), insisting that it may be impossible to achieve inclusive growth or protect vulnerable groups in the country under the current fragmented framework.
The call was made on Wednesday in Abuja at the National SDA summit, organized by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IIDEA), a programme funded by the European Union under its CSOs-Bridge Strengthening Project, in Abuja.
The SD Act was first conceptualised in the 1970s and enacted in 2004 as the central framework for coordinated and inclusive social development in the country.
The Enugu State Commissioner for Children, Gender and Social Development, Valentina Enih, while delivering the keynote address, decried that the existing Act, originally enacted as Decree 12 in 1974 and later reissued in 2004, does not any longer reflects the country’s realities.
She described the Act aa older than many of people in the hall, insisting that outdated provisions and emerging social challenges demand urgent reform.
She also stressed that unity among civil society organisations (CSOs) remained essential for progress, adding that personal interests often overshadowed collective objectives.
She noted that: “One stick is easily broken, but a bundle of broomsticks is not. We must speak with one voice,” while appealing to lawmakers to increase funding for ministries responsible for women affairs, poverty eradication and social protection, added that: “Many times, we use our personal resources just to ensure the work is done.”
On his part, the Chairman of the House Committee on Civil Society Organisations and Development Partners, Hon. Victor Obuzor acknowledged the legislative gaps that have hindered effective coordination of social development nationwide.
He said the National Assembly had made the Act’s review a priority, noting that: “Fragmentation, institutional reassignments and multiple regulatory frameworks have weakened the effectiveness of the Social Development Act.
“Our Committee is reviewing historical gaps, engaging stakeholders and supporting the development of a modernised civil society regulatory bill.”
He said the revised law would create clearer lines of authority, harmonise federal and state mandates and institutionalise civil society participation.
The Deputy Director at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Peter Audu, said the forum aligns with federal reforms targeting gender equality, social protection and national cohesion.
He noted that the government was committed to building stronger collaboration across ministries, development partners and state institutions.
“This forum provides an important opportunity to consider proposed amendments and develop a national coalition for sustainable financing and measurable results,” he said.
The CEO of the Accountability and Transparency Initiative, Dr. Fumi Akinyele, called for the revised law to embed gender responsiveness from the design stage.
She noted that many rural women were excluded from social protection programmes due to requirements such as smartphones, bank verification numbers and digital literacy.
“Inclusion must go beyond words. We need clear definitions, gender-responsive budgeting and disaggregated data. Committees must be balanced so that different voices are heard,” she said.
The Chairman of the Anambra Civil Society Network, Prince Chris Azor, shared experiences illustrating the challenges faced by sub-national CSOs, including inconsistent regulations that once led to the closure of community organisations’ bank accounts.
“We were stranded. Even registration processes were unclear. When grassroots operators cannot function, you are shrinking the civic space,” he said.
He urged that the amended Act provide states with a clear legal framework for social protection and civil society participation. “We want a standing law that expands the civic space and ensures citizens are part of governance.”
EU–IDEA, Stakeholders Call for Urgent Review of Social Development Act, Seek National Alignment
IPOB attacks police patrol teams in Anambra, snatches rifles, and abandons stolen SUV after shootout
HONORARY CONSULATE REPUBLIC OF CÔTE D’IVOIRE – MALTA
EU–IDEA, Stakeholders Call for Urgent Review of Social Development Act, Seek National Alignment
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