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France Against ECOWAS Single Currency- Members of ECOPARL
France Against ECOWAS Single Currency- Members of ECOPARL
By: Michael Mike
The French government has been accused of moving against the adoption of a single currency for the entire West Africa region.
The adoption of the single currency, ECO would have wiped out CFA franc which is currently used by the Francophone countries that are more than have of the members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the regional bloc
The CFA franc was created in the 1930s on the eve of the Second World War, and many critics see it as a neo-colonial device and a form of French monetary imperialism in Africa that continues to destroy any prospect of economic development in user nations.
Hon. Kolawole Taiwo, representing Ajeromi/Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Lagos and a member of the ECOWAS Parliament, said the single currency in West Africa is not about technicalities but about political will to set it in motion.
He said: “Our leaders are not ready to make it happen. There are too many external interferences that are delaying it. For instance the Francophone countries still see France as their master, and the French don’t want to let go of them which was the reason why they came up with CFA franc in order to block the achievements of single currency which is known as Eco.”
He stressed that: “The problem of Eco is not technical but it is the political reason. If our leaders want it to happen tomorrow, they will announce it.“
Another member of the ECOWAS Parliament from Liberia, Mr. Clarence Massaquoi said that achieving a single currency in the region in 2027 demands a practicalised political will to do it.
He said: “We should be concerned about the economy of other smaller countries, which will speak well of the political will of our leaders of their countries.
“I think in the ECOWAS region, we are reluctant to exercise our political will on several decisions.”
He added that “they should not be afraid of political powers which for me is one of the reasons why we lag behind in decisions. I am only hoping that we would say that because it took the EU 37 years to come up with the Euro, so we too should take 37 years even if we have the possibility and prospect and willingness of the people to do it today.”
“I hope ECOWAS can take decisions; the political will is for the structure itself. As it stands, the parliament does not have a full parliament power, so most of the decisions are taken by the authority of Heads of States. If they are not willing to let go of some of the political control and are not willing to stand the fear of losing control, then we cannot thrive. Even the decision to give the parliament full parliamentary power,” he added.
France Against ECOWAS Single Currency- Members of ECOPARL
Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has presented working tools to 150 almajirai students trained in vocational skills by his administration.
The training covered a variety of trades, including electrical installation and repair work, solar installation and repair work, leatherwork, welding, carpentry and building construction.
The initiative also includes cash support to enable beneficiaries to start their trades and contribute to the society’s development.
It seeks to enhance individual capabilities, uplift communities and provide almajirai with sustainable pathways to economic independence.
Delivering his address, Governor Zulum emphasised that his administration would continue to foster opportunities for the almajiri learners to secure a brighter future.
“By attending this training programme, you have taken a crucial step towards securing your future; equipped with new skills, you now have the power to transform your dreams into
reality.
“As the Governor of Borno State, I assure you that our Government remains fully committed to supporting the Sangaya Islamic education. We will continue investing in Sangaya educational resources to ensure every learner can access quality teaching and learning essentials,” he stated.
Zulum, however, expressed concern about the rising cases of molestation of children in the guise of teaching Islamic education.
He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to address a critical concern: the safety and well-being of our Sangaya learners. I stand firm in the commitment that the Borno State Government will not tolerate any form of molestation or violence, such as caning against any Almajiri. Every one of you, regardless of your background, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
“Our commitment to safeguarding children extends beyond the Almajiri; it encompasses all children. We must work collectively to ensure our society embraces every child without prejudice. This pledge is not merely a statement; it is a call to action for every parent, educator, and community leader to safeguard the rights of our Sangaya learners.”
Speaking earlier, the chairman of Borno Sangaya Board, Kalifa Aliyu Ahmad Abulfatahi, said the programme was unveiled in 2023 as part of Zulum’s resolve to address the challenges faced by almajiri children who are traditionally engaged in Islamic schooling and often lack access to formal education and opportunities.
Sheikh Kalifa noted that the training was organised in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board.
Also speaking, the state Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, who was represented by the Special Adviser in the ministry, Dr Bukar Tijjani, said that besides the training, the ministry had partnered with colleges, including the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies, to provide certification for almajiri learners.
Zulum was accompanied by the members of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba and Hon Usman Zannah, the State APC Chairman, Hon Bello Ayuba, Shehu of Borno, ably represented among other dignitaries.
Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills
Elderly Man Abducted by kidnappers n in Sabon Gari, Zaria
By Zagazola Makama
In a disturbing incident early this morning, an elderly man was kidnapped from his residence in Hayin Ojo, Sabon Gari, Zaria.
Police sources said the attack occurred at approximately 0130hrs when a group of armed men invaded the area, firing sporadically, and abducted Alhaji Saidu Mai Gold, aged 65.
The source said that the victim’s relative, reported the incident to the Sabon Gari Police Division around 0800hrs. In response, the Division’s Patrol Team was swiftly mobilized to the scene.
Efforts are currently ongoing to locate and rescue the victim.
Elderly Man Abducted by kidnappers n in Sabon Gari, Zaria
Two Suspected Kidnappers Arrested in Lere LGA, Kauru
By: Zagazola Makama
Security operatives in Lere LGA have successfully apprehended two suspected bandits following a tip-off from local hunters.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspects, identified as Sani Liman, 23, of Unguwan Fa Raminkura, and Murtala Magaji, alias Seto, 25, of Dambata Galadimawa Village in Kauru LGA, were arrested on April 15, 2025, at approximately 1330hrs.
The sources said Police personnel from Saminaka acted swiftly and arrested the suspects
Preliminary investigation has indicated that the two men may be linked to recent kidnapping activities in the region.
Police sources said that they are currently in police custody and will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Two Suspected Kidnappers Arrested in Lere LGA, Kauru
Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills
Elderly Man Abducted by kidnappers n in Sabon Gari, Zaria
Two Suspected Kidnappers Arrested in Lere LGA, Kauru
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