Connect with us

National News

Forum tells leaders in West Africa, Sahel to engage youth to end violent extremism, terrorism

Published

on

Forum tells leaders in West Africa, Sahel to engage youth to end violent extremism, terrorism

Forum tells leaders in West Africa, Sahel to engage youth to end violent extremism, terrorism

By: Michael Mike, Abuja

Political leaders in West Africa and the Sahel have been asked to engage young people in ending violent extremism and terrorism in the area.

The youth from 17 West African countries and Sahel, rising from a meeting in Abuja at the weekend, also urged the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) and member states to set aside quotas for young people representation in the decision making process in the region. 

The calls were made at the Annual West African and Sahel Youth Forum with the theme: “Young women and men at the heart of innovation and the construction of peaceful and resilient societies.”

The event was organised by the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) in collaboration with ECOWAS and with the support of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Presenting the declaration of the forum tagged, “Abuja Call to Action for building peaceful and resilient societies in West Africa and the Sahel”, Abdulrahman Zakariyau of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), noted that there is urgent need to translate into action youth policies and programmes in the region. 

The forum said it was worried by the persistence of the rise of violent extremism in the region which it said is occasioned by vulnerability, unemployment and idleness of young people. 

It called on governments and regional organisations to increase efforts to adequately address youth issues and concerns in relation to the recognition of their rights and strengthening of their roles in the fight against insecurity and violent extremism in the region. 

Also Read: Ivorian president, Quattara arrives Nigeria, commissions…

The forum added: “We urgently request all West Africa and Sahel governments to work for the promotion of social change for the benefit of young people through education, culture, sports and the prevention of alcohol and drug abuse in order to ensure a better future and sustainable development profitable to all without exclusion 

“We also request West African and Sahelian governments, regional organisations and partners to support the development of the digital economy and youth entrepreneurship promotion as well as to establish or strengthen mechanisms for access to investment and financing for youth start-ups in order to combat forced migration and brain drain”.

In his remarks, Special Representative of the Secretary General for West Africa and the Sahel, Mahamat Saleh Annadif, reaffirmed the need to take measures to further support young people.

He said: “Innovation by the youth as a strategic tool to strengthen peace and development should be considered as a priority.”

 He also reiterated the commitment of the United Nations and UNOWAS  to provide, in collaboration with ECOWAS and other partners, the necessary support to help young people fully play their role in strengthening peace, democracy and development in West Africa and the Sahel.

Forum tells leaders in West Africa, Sahel to engage youth to end violent extremism, terrorism

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

National News

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

Published

on

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

By: Michael Michael

Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.

A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.

It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.

In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.

He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.

The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”

He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.

He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.

He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.

The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.

Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.

The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

Continue Reading

National News

Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President

Published

on

Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 15 July, 2025, as a Public Holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

This is in futherance to the seven days of National mourning declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on Monday on behalf of the Federal Government, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu.

The Minister, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, stated that the holiday is a mark of respect for the late President’s service to the nation, his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his enduring legacy in governance and national development.

He said: “President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.”

He urged citizens to use the day to honour the late President’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, in line with his vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.

He noted that as earlier announced, the National flags are to fly at half mast for the seven days of mourning period from Sunday 13th July, 2025.

The Federal Government extends deepest condolences to the family of the late President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
End

Continue Reading

National News

Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari

Published

on

Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari

By: Michael Mike

The Chinese Embassy has mourned the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Embassy in a message on X commiserate with the government and the people of Nigeria.

The message read: “The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria extends our deepest condolences to the people of Nigeria on the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), Former President of Nigeria.

“We mourn a resolute leader whose unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy.

“His pivotal contributions to advancing China-Nigeria relations will forever remain etched in our shared history. Our thoughts are with his family and Nigerian people.”

Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari

Continue Reading

Trending

Verified by MonsterInsights