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Infrastructure Revamp, Key To Our Economic Policies – VP Shettima

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Infrastructure Revamp, Key To Our Economic Policies – VP Shettima

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said ongoing power projects to light up industrial clusters across the country are an indication that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration is on a journey of rekindling the flames of enterprise.

This is just as he added that the Federal Government’s commitment to revamping Nigeria’s Infrastructure framework was the much-needed drive in empowering Nigerians and strengthening the nation’s economic policies.

The Vice President disclosed these during his visit to the Agbara Industrial Cluster for the launch of a collaboration between the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) and its partners on the project to light up industrial clusters.

According to him, while the government has embraced the past as a lesson in mapping a new path for a robust power sector, the historical mistakes that have brought Nigeria to the point it is are rather an inspiration to work harder.

The Vice President stated: “For too long, some of these ventures were forced to pack up, their potential stifled by the persistent energy constraints. Today, we embark on a journey of empowerment, a journey aimed at rekindling the flames of enterprise and ensuring that the promise of prosperity prevails over the darkness of past hindrances.

“We have gone a full cycle in the search for solutions to our energy crisis. We have unbundled and privatized the power assets in generation, transmission, and distribution. We have also implemented the National Integrated Power Project through the NDPHC.”

He vowed to closely monitor the progress of work in the ongoing power projects to light up industrial clusters across the country, with a view to holding every relevant official accountable.

“I assure you that, in my capacity as the Board Chairman of NDPHC, I will hold every relevant official accountable and closely monitor the progress achieved in this project. We owe Nigerians this success story,” the VP declared.

Senator Shettima reiterated the commitment of the Tinubu administration “to providing the necessary institutional and policy support to ensure the successful delivery” of the project.

While delivering his address titled, “Lighting the Path to Economic Development,” the Vice President expressed gratitude to the Governors of Ogun, Lagos and Oyo States where the NDPHC was already developing similar projects, as well as the companies involved.

The VP noted that the partnership between state-owned power companies and the private sector was an embodiment of progress, teamwork, and commitment to fostering synergy to enhance the productivity of businesses and institutions in the country.

The partnership, according to him, doesn’t only align with the vision of the federal government to transform Nigeria into a premier investment destination but also to serve as an industrial benchmark in Africa.

He added that it was an affirmation of President Tinubu’s resolve to revamp the country’s infrastructure framework.

The VP stated: “The launch of this strategic collaboration between our company, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), and its key partners for the design, development, and operation of projects to supply dedicated, steady, and quality power to major industrial and commercial clusters in Nigeria echoes His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pledge to reinvigorate our nation’s infrastructure framework.

“The choice of Agbara, Ogun State, as the pilot site of this owes to its function as an artery of Nigeria’s industrial structure. This is our resolve to breathe new life into the enterprises that sustain our economy.”

Noting that addressing the supply deficit in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) is an intervention that aims to reverse “the generational setbacks that businesses with immense promise have endured,” Shettima said it was one thing to attract investors to the country, and another to make them stay.

He further assured that lighting up industrial clusters across the country signposts the beginning of a promised opportunity for Nigeria.

“By mobilizing private capital, harnessing the generation portfolio of NDPHC, and utilizing the existing power delivery infrastructure, we aim to provide a consistent, reliable, and high-quality power supply to specific customer clusters with substantial capacity demands.

“This effort has initiated an industrial revival of significant magnitude. In essence, it implies that, after a considerable period, the NESI will experience a substantial increase in supply levels without the necessity of injecting public funds, delivering nearly continuous power precisely where it’s most critical for our economy,” he explained.

Senator Shettima described the host community, Agbara, as an archetype of what private sector investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship could accomplish in the economic and infrastructural development of a nation, noting that other planned industrial clusters are a manifestation of how private capital could “drive industrial development and foster economic prosperity”.

The Vice President revealed plans by the Federal Government to ensure the industrial clusters unfolded into a reality.

“We are not only committed to providing the institutional and policy support necessary to enable, promote, and sustain this private sector-led initiative but also to paving the way for the emergence of synchronized development in transmission and distribution infrastructure, aligned with the demands of industrial customers.

“This infrastructure is designed for the efficient and reliable transmission of power from NDPHC’s plants. We will deploy the appropriate technology to ensure the efficient operation of the networks and to minimize commercial, collection, and technical losses that have plagued the industry,” he said.

Earlier, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State said the location of the pilot phase of the initiative is due to the viability of the Agbara Industrial area as the most successful industrial estate in the country.

He said the initiative aligns with his administration’s drive to provide critical infrastructure in Industrial clusters across the State and thanked President Bola Tinubu and VP Shettima for prioritizing the power sector, noting that it will unlock potentials in different sectors of the economy.

On his part, the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu said the interaction with stakeholders around the Agbara Industrial estate was part of efforts by the Federal Government to deliver safe and reliable electricity to industrial and heavy-user clusters across the country.

He expressed optimism that the initiative to ensure effective power supply to the Agbara Industrial Estate would be achieved and can be a model to be replicated across the country.

Mr Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State said the challenges experienced in the power can be surmounted with effective collaboration and partnership as well as adherence to set standards and due process

He urged all stakeholders to be cautious in their comments and opinions about systems and institutions in Nigeria.

For his part, the MD/CEO, Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Mr Chiedu Ugbo said the event signifies the unwavering commitment and determination of the Tinubu administration to leverage partnerships with stakeholders to address challenges associated with electricity access for Nigerian homes and businesses.

He said NDPHC remains committed to promoting the bilateral power sales initiative as one of the measures adopted by the company to deliver electricity to industrial clusters and businesses across the country.

Aside from the roundtable, the VP held interactions with representatives of the different clusters in the industrial area.

He had earlier on arrival at the StrongPack premises, the venue of the event, toured the production lines at the factory.

Present at the event were Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Deputy Governor of Ogun State; Hon. Olatunji Akinosi, Deputy Chairman House Committee on Alternative Education; Mr Sola Arifayan, the CEO, Electric Utilities Ltd; Mr Del Tupaz, MD of StrongPack Ltd; representatives of Eko Disco and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, among other stakeholders in the Agbara Industrial Area.

Infrastructure Revamp, Key To Our Economic Policies – VP Shettima

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IPOB attacks police patrol teams in Anambra, snatches rifles, and abandons stolen SUV after shootout

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4 hours ago

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November 27, 2025

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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

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HONORARY CONSULATE REPUBLIC OF CÔTE D’IVOIRE – MALTA

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4 hours ago

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November 27, 2025

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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

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EU–IDEA, Stakeholders Call for Urgent Review of Social Development Act, Seek National Alignment

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8 hours ago

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November 27, 2025

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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

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