National News

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger: ECOWAS Parliament proposes mediation committee

Published

9 months ago

May 21, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger: ECOWAS Parliament proposes mediation committee

By: Michael Mike

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has proposed the appointment of an Adhoc Mediation Committee to prevail on Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, the three member states of the regional bloc, to retrace their steps and reunite with other member nations.

The Acting Speaker of the Parliament, Barau Jibrin, who is also the Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, said the machinery has been set in motion to do this.

Jibrin, speaking at the opening of 2024 Second Extraordinary Session of the Sixth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament in Kano State on Tuesday, noted that there is no alternative to a strong united regional bloc.

He said: ”I will, in consultation with my colleagues on the Bureau, be proposing the appointment of an Ad hoc Mediation Committee whose mandate will be to work with all stakeholders in getting our brothers to rescind their decision and come home and work towards promoting dialogue with a view to resolving conflicts in the region. It’s no doubt that we are stronger and there is absolutely no alternative to our collective aspirations of a united, peaceful and secure ECOWAS.

Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso had in January this year announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

The junta-led countries had been suspended from the regional bloc for coup d’état and were urged to return to democratic rule.

But in a shock reaction to the suspension, the three governments took the decision to withdraw from ECOWAS as according to them it was a “sovereign decision” to withdraw from the regional bloc.

Jubrin disclosed the session will also provide an opportunity for the Community Parliament to deliberate and provide fresh perspectives on pressing issues in the ECOWAS Region and proffer recommendations on how peace, security and stability can be attained.

”As the Parliament looks towards facilitating the promotion of democracy, checks and balances, as well as accountability in the ECOWAS Community, having a strong ECOWAS Parliament is indispensable. I have had the esteemed honour of leading this Parliament for barely two months and I have concluded that much needs to be done in terms of asserting the independence of the Parliament in the exercise of its important roles of parliamentary oversight and representation.

“There is, also, a compelling need to build strong collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission and undertake joint initiatives aimed at strengthening regional security and advancing development. While it is true that each institution has its unique prerogatives, the fact remains that there exist cross-cutting issues that are best addressed with enhanced collaboration among the community institutions.”

On the delegation of Togo to the parliament, Jibrin disclosed that the delegation from that country that the speakership of the sixth legislature has be zoned to, is expected to be sworn in as members of the parliament before the end of the session.

“I wish to also inform this house that a Parliamentary Fact-finding mission was dispatched to the Republic of Togo. The delegation ascertained circumstances surrounding the notable absence of the Togolese delegation, which, by virtue of the Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of the Powers of the Parliament, deserves the Speakership, and held discussions with national stakeholders on other political issues. I am pleased to report that we received very favorable response from the Togolese authorities that our brothers from Togo will be inaugurated as soon as possible.

He noted that since the inauguration of the sixth legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament on Thursday, April, 2024, it has been able make some notable achievements and participated in various regional, continental and international programmes.

“Within this short period, the ECOWAS Parliament participated in the Third Parliamentary Policy Dialogue on the Protection of Vulnerable Targets against terrorism, which was hosted by the United Nations Office on Counter Terrorism, a Capacity Building Training on Labor Migration Governance under the auspices of the African Union Commission and the International Conference on enhancing the role, relevance, and effectiveness of the ECOWAS Court of Justice through the strengthening of synergies between the Court and national stakeholders, which was hosted by our sister Institution the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice.

“Additionally, members of the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarian Association were invited by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies to share experience with the National Assembly of Nigeria on the modalities in establishing a multi-party women’s caucus in the Nigerian National Assembly. We look forward to more of such engagements, especially with our counterparts at the National Level, with the view to promoting regional integration.”

In an interview with journalists, Sen. Ali Ndume who is perhaps the longest serving member of the regional parliament, said the departing members time out is surely over now, as all that was needed to big them back into the fold is now in place.

He noted that the decision to leave the bloc if it could be recalled was made after the coup in Niger was condemned by all members especially Nigeria.

He insisted that the bad blood which led to the decision to leave has since been drained and Niger is no longer annoyed with sister West African countries especially Nigeria and as such the country from all indications is ready to come back.

In his address the Kano state Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, emphasized the need to tackle the citizenship issues among ECOWAS member countries, regional security, integration, environmental and natural resources challenges, and higher education, employment, poverty, and democratic volatility.

He cautioned against allowing global powers to turn the region into a dumping ground for finished goods, stressing that Africa is not a dumping ground for global markets.

The Kano Governor urged the Regional Parliament to revisit the issue of a common currency and passports, which would enhance the region’s economic viability and global competitiveness.

Yusuf expressed concern about the proliferation of illicit drugs and arms and light weapons, calling for concerted efforts to combat these menaces.

He said that, despite challenges, the West African regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP) stood at $633 billion as of 2023, highlighting the region’s potential to become a significant global economic key player.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria, Yusuf Tuggar, in a message, assured the community of Nigeria’s Government continued support while identifying ECOWAS Parliament as vital institution in fostering regional integration.

Tuggar, represented by Ambassador Musa Nuhu, the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to ECOWAS, stressed the need for ECOWAS Community to strengthen its democratic institutions for the benefits of the region.

He said, “we need to collaborate with all organs and institutions within the ECOWAS. You have at your disposal so many instruments to use for you to achieve that.”

The Minister urged the ECOWAS Parliament to use its various mechanisms to engage member countries that currently under unconstitutional changes of government.

Tuggar said, “as regional Parliamentarians, you have a role to play in harnessing the cooperation of our people. The Parliamentarians are closer to our populace and that is why you have to underscore the importance of the role you have are occupying today especially in this period where our sub-regional organization is so much challenged with numerous issues.”

He described the hosting of the regional meeting in the commercial city of Kano as important as it will greatly bridge the gap between the citizens and the regional community.

During this session, the regional parliament is expected to hold deliberations and adopt three very important instruments which bear heavily on the progress and effective implementation of our mandate.

They are, the Rules of Procedure of the Sixth Legislature, which was deferred from our Inaugural session. The Strategic Plan of the Sixth Legislature, and The Work Plan of the year 2024.

The Rules of Procedure serves as a guide and direction for the parliament in checking procedural deficiencies.

The Strategic Plan, on the other hand, serves as a crucial and indispensable tool in ensuring that the programs and activities of the parliament are directly linked with the overall strategic institutional objectives of ECOWAS, while the Work Plan sets the agenda for the engagements the year.

Five parliamentarians were sworn as members of the regional parliament at the opening of the session by the acting speaker of the parliament, Senator Jibrin.

The ceremony was attended by the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, the Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero, the Emir Karaye, Alhaji Ibrahim Abubakar II and Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim.

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger: ECOWAS Parliament proposes mediation committee

National News

NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army

Published

2 days ago

February 2, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army

By: Michael Mike

Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has congratulated Amanda Azubuike on her historic promotion to Brigadier General in the United States Army.

In a statement issued by the Commission’s Head, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun on Sunday, Dabiri-Erewa lauded Azubuike’s remarkable achievement as a testament to her dedication, resilience, and exceptional service.

Born in London to a Nigerian father and a Zimbabwean mother, Azubuike’s journey is a source of pride for Nigerians worldwide.

She joined the U.S. Army in 1994, becoming an aviator after completing the Army Aviation Officer Basic Course.

Over her distinguished career, she has held pivotal roles, including serving as a platoon leader, flight operations officer, and public affairs officer. She currently serves as Deputy Commanding Officer at the U.S. Army Cadet Command.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the significance of Azubuike’s promotion, stating, “Amanda’s elevation to Brigadier General not only shatters glass ceilings but also highlights the invaluable contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to global advancements.”

The NiDCOM Chairman urged Nigerians worldwide to draw inspiration from Azubuike’s accomplishment, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and excellence in their respective endeavours.

NIDCOM Boss Congratulates Amanda Azubuike on Promotion to Brigadier General in US Army

National News

VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs

Published

7 days ago

January 28, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs

…MSME the only way to strengthen the resilience of our people – Zulum

By: Our Reporter

Borno State entrepreneurs participating in the 6th Expanded National MSME Clinics and Fashion Hub will receive an unconditional grant of N300,000 each to support and enhance their businesses.

This was announced by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, during the official opening of the event on Tuesday at the Government House in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Senator Shettima revealed that each of the outstanding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that participated in the exhibition would be eligible for the N300,000 grant. “I am pleased to announce on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that an unconditional grant of N300,000 will be awarded to each outstanding MSME exhibiting at today’s clinic,” he stated.

The Vice President further explained that the Borno State centre is part of the ongoing national initiative to establish Expanded National MSME Clinics across the country. He assured that the grants are non-repayable, reflecting the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the success and sustainability of small businesses in the region.

Senator Shettima also highlighted the newly inaugurated Borno State Fashion Hub, which he said has the capacity to create up to 48,000 jobs annually, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing the MSME ecosystem in the state, particularly in the fashion industry.

“This hub is among the largest ever established by the Federal Government, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support the fashion manufacturing cluster in Borno State,” he added.

In a remark, Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, noted that his administration has adopted an inclusive approach to support small and medium scale businesses, recognising it as essential to strengthening resilience amid the challenges faced by MSMEs.

Governor Zulum acknowledged that MSMEs in Borno State have faced severe hardships due to the prolonged insurgency and the broader economic challenges in the country.

“The MSME Clinic will revitalise business activities in Borno State, create employment opportunities, and increase income sources for our people,” Governor Zulum said.

“Our government is committed to providing more opportunities for our people to expand their income sources.”

Governor Zulum also outlined several initiatives by his administration, including the disbursement of soft loans to empower entrepreneurs, the construction of modern markets, the establishment of vocational training institutions, and the renovation of skill acquisition centres damaged during the insurgency.

The Governor expressed optimism that the MSME Clinics would focus on five key areas: funding, skill development, infrastructure, access to markets, and technology. Additionally, the clinics will provide business registration, training, and mentorship services to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

“The expansion of this Clinic is not just a project; it is a demonstration of our belief in the creativity and resilience of the entrepreneurs in Borno State and Nigeria. When MSMEs thrive, they create jobs, reduce poverty, and drive innovation across sectors,” Governor Zulum said.

“These strategies are designed to address challenges and unlock the full potential of our entrepreneurial systems.”

Governor Zulum also urged entrepreneurs and business owners to fully utilise the resources provided by the MSME Clinic to grow their businesses, enhance their skills, and explore new opportunities.

Before the programme, Vice President Kashim Shettima commissioned the Borno State Fashion Hub at the defunct Kashim Ibrahim College of Education and WEMA Bank partnership branch.

Dignitaries that accompanied the VP include the minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of State Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMES, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson.

VP Shettima launches 6th MSME Clinic, announces unconditional grant of N300,000 for each Borno Entrepreneurs

National News

2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria

Published

1 week ago

January 27, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

A 2.5 million eggs per-day production poultry farm is to be built in Nigeria by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC).

This is one of the major highlights of the ongoing visit led by the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe to China.

According to a statement on Monday, the delegation at a meeting with Chilwee Group scored a significant mileage during a visit to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.

The statement read: “The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has made significant strides in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting economic cooperation between Nigeria and China. Recent agreements and investments in the energy, technology, and manufacturing sectors are poised to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.

“At the forefront of these developments is the agreement between the NCSP and Chilwee Group, a prominent Chinese manufacturer of cutting-edge batteries and power storage solutions. This agreement is expected to enhance Nigeria’s energy security, promote renewable energy, and reduce carbon emissions. Chilwee Group has committed to investing in Nigeria through a multifaceted approach, including sales, manufacturing, and potentially mining raw materials for the power storage value chain.

“In addition to the agreement with Chilwee Group, the NCSP has also made significant progress in other areas. During a recent visit to China, the Director-General of the NCSP, Joseph Tegbe, led a delegation to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Headquarters, where they explored opportunities for replicating a 2.5 million eggs-per-day production poultry farm in Nigeria using innovative funding models.

“Also, the NCSP facilitated a tripartite agreement between CPL Medical group, CSSC Haishen Medical Technology Co Ltd and China Habour Engineering Company over the renovation and upgrading of equipment in selected teaching hospitals across the country. While speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Tegbe noted that the agreement represented an example of private-sector collaboration which the partnership hopes to promote.

The statement also revealed that the NCSP delegation also visited China Electronic Corporation, where Tegbe expressed optimism about cooperation between Nigeria and China in areas such as electronics equipment, public security surveillance, and identity management. He emphasized the potential for collaboration, stating that he has President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to identify top-priority projects that will drive Nigeria’s industrialization.

The NCSP delegation was also at Huawei, where they discussed opportunities for collaboration in the ICT sector, including training programmes and the deployment of smart city models. With the imminent deployment of the smart city model presented by Huawei to President Tinubu in Beijing, Nigeria is set to reap the benefits of the investments of Huawei in Nigeria and her partnership with the Tinubu-led administration.

These benefits include smart, qualitative education, better healthcare delivery, enhanced communications technology, improved security infrastructure, and digitalization of key government facilities. The NCSP also met with representatives from Loong UAV, a global leader in tactical drone solutions, to explore opportunities for cooperation in the field of drone technology.

The cooperation with Loong UAV is expected to bolster Nigeria’s domestic capabilities in drone technology, facilitating access to essential services and commodities in remote or hard-to-reach regions. This innovative use of drones could significantly enhance Nigeria’s logistical capabilities, creating new opportunities for economic growth and development.

According to the statement: “Overall, these agreements and investments demonstrate the NCSP’s commitment to driving Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments. By focusing on creating value-driven partnerships, strengthening Nigeria’s role in Africa’s industrialization, and coordinating initiatives that align with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the NCSP is poised to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development in Nigeria.”

2.5 million Daily Egg Production Farm Underway in Nigeria