International
EU Funds Programmes to Develop Competencies, Politics
EU Funds Programmes to Develop Competencies, Politics
By: Michael Mike
The European Union (EU) is complementing the efforts of the Nigerian government to improve and strengthen democracy across the country by supporting programmes that build the capacity of young people in politics and governance.
The E.U. through the Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme has funded the Yiaga Africa’s Constituency Office Internship Programme.
According to a statement on Saturday, the 3-month programme, which started in December 2024, and is expected to end in February this year, provides an excellent opportunity for young individuals committed to democratic development and eager to deepen their understanding of legislative processes and effective constituency engagement, to gain hands-on experience in the operations of constituency offices and legislature-constituent relations.
The statement read that by placing these interns in the constituency offices of lawmakers, the programme not only offers them the chance to understand the legislative process, but provides an opportunity for them to engage with lawmakers, contribute meaningfully to policy discussions, and be part of constituency engagement.
According to the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Zissimos Vergos, the EU’s belief is that a thriving democracy is built on responsible leadership and active citizens engagement.
He said: “Young people, therefore, play very significant roles in developing Nigeria’s democracy by actively participating in the electoral and governance processes, and contributing to guidelines, policies, and frameworks that ensure free, fair, credible, and transparent elections.
“Hence, it is important to provide platforms for these young and vibrant minds to actively engage and be a part of the country’s governance process. The time for making excuses is over. The moment people start making excuses not to act ethically, democratic institutions are undermined. Rather than criticising democracy, we must focus on ethical decisions that shape its practice.”
Highlighting the impact of the programme in strengthening the relationship between lawmakers and their constituencies, Yiaga Africa’s Programme Manager, Yetunde Bakare said, “The Constituency Office Internship Programme encourages youth participation in the democratic process, ensuring that young people are involved in shaping policies that affect them.
“We would like to say thank you to the EU for the support that we receive that enables us to do the work that we do, which allows us to deploy young people to constituency offices. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the EU and the young people who continue to apply and take advantage of opportunities like this.”
One of the interns, Olaiya Oluwadamilola, while expressing passionately about how the programme has shaped both her professional and personal life, said, “This internship has not only enhanced my communication skills and boosted my confidence, but it has also inspired me to give back to my community and pursue a career in politics.”
Another intern, Salihu Gode,, praised the EU’s vision for inclusive governance, and harped on the importance of mentorship, which she believes is essential for her career development and political ambition. “With the skills and knowledge I’ve acquired, I’m confident that I can drive meaningful change in my community and contribute to Nigeria’s democratic growth,” she said. Gode also expressed her commitment to empowering women and promoting female participation in politics—an area the EU actively supports.
EU Funds Programmes to Develop Competencies, Politics
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has extended its warm congratulations to Germany on the successful election of Friedrich Merz as the new Chancellor. The Conservative Leader
won with 325 votes in the 630-Seat Bundestag on Tuesday, 6th May, 2025.
A statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa read: “Nigeria commends Germany’s strong democratic traditions and values, which have once again been demonstrated through a peaceful and transparent electoral process. We are confident that under Friedrich Merz’s leadership, Germany will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing global peace, stability, and prosperity.
“As longstanding partners, Nigeria looks forward to deepening bilateral relations with Germany in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, security, and sustainable development. We also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other international fora.
“The Nigerian government and people wish the new Chancellor a successful tenure and express our readiness to work closely with Germany for the benefit of both nations and the global community.”
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 years.
The departed Holy Father, the political head of Vatican City and the head of the Catholic Church, was described in the statement as a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people.
The statement read: “Nigeria commiserates with the teaming population of the catholic church in the country and joins the international community, particularly the Catholic faithful worldwide, in mourning this immense loss. Pope Francis’ deep concern for the marginalized; including refugees, the poor, and victims of conflict, resonated strongly in Nigeria, where his calls for interreligious harmony and solidarity were a beacon of hope amid challenges.
“His historic 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, including the suffering of Indigenous peoples, indeed set a powerful example of reconciliation. Also worthy of commendation is his advocacy for peace in Africa, and other conflict areas in the world, reflecting his universal pastoral mission.”
The statement further read that: “In this moment of grief, therefore, Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic Church, and the Argentine people, who gifted the world this extraordinary pontiff.
“We pray for the repose of his soul and trust that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and care for our common home will endure.”
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
Chinese National Abducted in Durumi Abuja, as Kidnappers demand N300million ransom
By: Zagazola Makama
A suspected abduction occurred on April 18, 2025, when Mr. Yangi Ming, a Chinese national working at Panda Supermarket in Jabi, was reportedly abducted by unknown individuals.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that Mr Yangi Ming left his residence at Stargate Apartment in Durumi around 1700hrs and was last seen wearing brown shorts and a black polo shirt.
His sister, Aisha Pan, residing in Sharanda, Kano State, later received a ransom demand of ₦300 million, made from Yangi Ming’s mobile phone number.
Chinese National Abducted in Durumi Abuja, as Kidnappers demand N300million ransom
China Says Taiwan Independence is a Threat to It’s Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity
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