News
NARC SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOWS AND SUBJECT EXPERTS MAKE PRESENTATIONS
NARC SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOWS AND SUBJECT EXPERTS MAKE PRESENTATIONS
By: Our Reporter
The Friday, 22 November 2024, edition of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) Weekly Subject Experts’ Presentation was held at Hall A, TY Buratai Block Abuja. There were two presentations made by the Subject experts on Eastern Europe and East/Central Africa.
The first presentation was made by Brig Gen AK Egwuagu (Rtd) subject expert on Eastern Europe, he centered his presentation on how BRICS Welcomes Nigeria. Nigeria has officially joined BRICS alongside 12 other nations, further strengthening its economic ties with the inter-governmental bloc. This announcement was made during the last BRICS summit held in Russia from 22-24 Oct 2024 (The Punch, 25 October 2024). Twelve additional countries including Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam joined the BRICS alongside Nigeria, making them 13 in number, as partner countries of BRICS and not full members (Nairametrics, 25 October 2024).
This followed the full membership granted Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in Jan 2024, which qualified them to attend their first BRICS summit as full members at the Oct 2024 gathering in Russia. The group which was initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) in 2009, welcomed South Africa as a member in 2010 to rebrand the alliance to BRICS, with a core mission to foster trade, investment, development, security and cooperation among leading emerging market economies. Nigeria’s inclusion came up on the heels of a significant surge in foreign capital inflows from BRICS nations, having risen by 189% in the first half of 2024, reaching $1.27 billion compared to $438.72 million during the same period in 2023 (Arise News, Oct 25, 2024). By inviting Nigeria to participate in initiatives and discussions aimed at strengthening economic ties and cooperation between BRICS and other emerging nations due to her economic potential, large population and strategic location in Africa, the bloc is signaling its intention to diversify as a global economic force.
In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria, Brig Gen AK Egwuagu (Rtd) pointed out that, last year, Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shetima attended the BRICS summit in South Africa, but did not push for Nigeria to become a member when the bloc admitted new full members including two from Africa – Ethiopia and Egypt. Despite her membership to many international and regional organizations including UN, AU, ECOWAS etc, Nigeria needed to reassess its foreign policy and economic strategies in order to become a viable candidate for BRICS. Nigeria’s non-invitation to join BRICS in 2023 was largely due to its foreign policy thrust and lack of alignment with BRICS goals.
Her foreign policy needed to align with that of BRICS, and could be challenging to the Western countries that had historical relationship with it. But surprisingly in November 2023, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, expressed the country’s intention to join BRICS as a full member within the next two years, and to also join the G20, leveraging on its large economy and population. As a follow-up to the plan, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe confirmed Nigeria’s partnership with BRICS on Thursday 24 Oct 2024 (The Punch, 25 October 2024). With the realization of the minister’s dream of Nigeria becoming a member of the BRICS family, it is pertinent to note that while joining the bloc is a significant move for the country with many advantages, there are also some disadvantages. Hence, a BRICS membership will enable Nigeria to benefit from the bloc’s diverse economies, leading to increased trade and investment opportunities that would serve as alternative to Western dominance on the economic system (Meta AI). It will also provide Nigeria with more flexible opportunities in its economic policies, enabling it to gain more prominence on the global stage and allowing it to play a more significant role in international affairs. Joining BRICS will make Nigeria more resilient to economic shocks, giving it access to large consumer markets of BRICS countries and increased demand for Nigerian goods and services
He recommended that, the Federal Government of Nigeria, NASS and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should undertake a critical review of Nigeria’s foreign policy in line with the current realities and also Nigeria should engage with both BRICS and Western countries towards maintaining a diplomatic balance.
Similarly, the second presentation was made by Brig Gen ED Idimah subject expert on East and Central Africa who focused his presentation on, Contractors Association Urges Government to Address Outstanding Debts of Members. On Monday 11 November 2024, the Guardian newspaper, Tanzania, reported that The Tanzania United Contractors and Allied Services Association (TUCASA) has called on the government to address substantial overdue payments owed to many of its members. In a statement issued yesterday, TUCASA Chairman Samuel Marwa emphasized that these delayed payments, which are associated with completed government contracts, have significantly disrupted the operations and financial viability of numerous companies, thereby jeopardizing the future of Tanzania’s construction and supply sectors.
Marwa highlighted that TUCASA’s members encompass contractors, suppliers of construction materials, and equipment providers, all of whom have diligently fulfilled their obligations by despite their commitment, these businesses are experiencing extensive delays in receiving payments from the government, with some waiting for years. Delivering essential infrastructure projects and supplying vital materials. “The situation is increasingly untenable as contractors face mounting costs from unpaid bank loans, accumulating interest, and intensifying pressure from creditors. The ramifications of these overdue payments are severe,” he stated. He elaborated that many contractors are struggling to meet their financial obligations, with some companies on the brink of insolvency or contemplating liquidation.
Additionally, in a bid to reduce operational costs, numerous companies have been compelled to implement workforce layoffs, resulting in significant job losses and economic distress for many Tanzanian families. “With inadequate cash flow to maintain their operations, several companies are at risk of closure, which poses a threat to the future of Tanzania’s construction industry and the availability of dependable infrastructure services. The current crisis is forcing companies to make challenging decisions merely to stay afloat,” he noted. Marwa warned that without prompt government intervention, the repercussions will extend beyond individual businesses, adversely affecting the broader Tanzanian economy, including job security, livelihoods, and vital national development projects.
In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria, Brig Gen ED Idimah stressed that, Nigeria, a country rich in resources, has witnessed significant infrastructural development over the past few decades. However, the government’s inability to pay indigenous contractors has led to a crisis that affects economic growth, employment, and the sustainability of local businesses. Historically the relationship between the Nigerian government and indigenous contractors has evolved over the years. After the end of military rule in 1999, there was a push for local contractors to participate in government projects. However, various factors have led to a backlog of unpaid debts (Adeleke, 2020).
The Public Procurement Act of 2007 was established to enhance transparency and accountability in the procurement process. Despite this, many contractors report difficulties in receiving payments for completed projects, leading to disputes and legal battles (Ogunyemi, 2019). Report by the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2022 indicates that Nigerian government debt to indigenous contractors stands at N3.4 trillion. This debt has accumulated due to various reasons, including budgetary constraints, corruption, and mismanagement of funds (Okeke, 2022). The inability of the government to settle these debts has far-reaching implications. It hampers the growth of indigenous contractors, limits job creation, and affects the quality of infrastructure development (Ibrahim, 2021). Additionally, the trust deficit between the government and contractors can deter foreign investment in the sector.
He recommended that, the Federal Government of Nigeria should establish a streamlined process for ensuring timely payment of contractors and also emphasize and encourage transparency in the procurement process to reassure contractors of stability and reliability of future contracts.
NARC SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOWS AND SUBJECT EXPERTS MAKE PRESENTATIONS
News
Nigerian Delegation Arrives China to Cement Chino-Nigeria Relations
Nigerian Delegation Arrives China to Cement Chino-Nigeria Relations
By: Michael
Mike
A Nigerian delegation led by the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe has arrived China to put muscle to Chino-Nigeria relations.
According to a statement on Sunday Tegbe’s trip marks a significant step in furthering the comprehensive strategic partnership between Nigeria and China, with the goal of building a high-level China-Nigeria community with a shared future.
The statement said upon arrival in China, Tegbe was warmly received by representatives of the Chinese Business Community and officials from the Nigerian embassy.
The statement read: “During his (Tegbe) visit, he is expected to engage with top Chinese government officials and participate in a series of strategic meetings aimed at sealing agreements that will bolster the Nigerian economy in key sectors.
“These sectors include Agriculture, where efforts will focus on enhancing agricultural productivity and food security; Alternative Energy, which involves developing renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels; Healthcare, with an emphasis on improving access to quality healthcare services and medical infrastructure; Mining, which seeks to harness Nigeria’s mineral resources to drive economic growth; Education, aimed at strengthening educational institutions and promoting cultural exchange; and Technology, focused on fostering innovation and technological advancement in Nigeria.”
The statement added that: “As the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, Tegbe leads the initiative to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments, supporting China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Tegbe’s visit underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen their economic cooperation and foster sustainable development. As Nigeria seeks to become a net exporter to China in the next five years, this partnership is poised to play a crucial role in achieving this goal. The partnership provides a platform for the actualization of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which involves exploring more development paths with China as a major development partner.”
Nigerian Delegation Arrives China to Cement Chino-Nigeria Relations
News
Jega Commends Zulum for Establishing “First of Its Kind Ranch in Nigeria”
Jega Commends Zulum for Establishing “First of Its Kind Ranch in Nigeria”
By: Michael
Mike
Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Co-Chair of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega has commended Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum for establishing a cattle ranch that is the first of its kind in Nigeria.
Jega made the commendation on Saturday in Mafa local government area of Borno State at the commissioning of Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement constructed by Zulum’s administration, with the support of the federal government.
He said: “I must say that I witnessed something I had never seen in our country today. We have seen today the vision of a leader, the passion and commitment to what clearly will help drive economic growth, uplift the lives and livelihood of people and provide employment to our citizens.”
“It is highly commendable and encouraging that Borno State has shown leadership and commitment to livestock development based on what we have seen at today’s event,” Jega added.
He also said: “It is gratifying that the state is ahead with the launching of the Annual Animal Vaccination Scheme and distribution of livestock for livelihood restoration and economic empowerment of the citizens. It is commendable that the state has both the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development and Borno State Livestock Management Agency (BOLMA).”
Delivering his address, Zulum noted that Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement is a 4-square km project built for 461 nomadic families from eighteen communities affected by Boko Haram insurgency.
He said: “In addition to a house, each of the 461 families received pairs of bulls and heifers, goats, and a humanitarian relief package consisting of essential food and non-food items.
“The project has facilities that include a housing estate with road networks, schools, health clinics, veterinary services, and state-of-the-art dairy and beef upgrading centres.
“Other facilities are pasture development centres, milk collection centres, earth dams to secure water supply, markets to foster local trade, and security outposts to ensure a safe and secure environment for all.”
Meanwhile, the minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha has branded Borno State Governor with the ministry’s logo appreciating his commitment to livestock development.
The ministers said: “I am delighted to join you at this occasion of the commissioning of Ngarannam Livestock Improvement Ranch Settlement built by Borno State Government. I wholeheartedly congratulate and commend His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State, on this laudable project which will immensely benefit the good people of Borno State and Nigeria in general, with attendant implications for addressing the food security challenges in our nation.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Deputy Governor of Borno and the overseeing Commissioner for the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Dr Umar Kadafur, stated that Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement is one of the three established by the Zulum administration, one in each senatorial district of the state.
According to him, while that of Ngarannam is commissioned, the other two are also at 90% completion stage. He said, “It is with immense gratitude and pride that I stand before you today to welcome you all as we commission Ngarannam RUGA as first in the list of the three livestock ranching centres (RUGA) located on Grazing Reserve across the three senatorial districts of Borno State.”
He added, “These centres symbolise our commitment to sustainable development, peaceful coexistence, and economic empowerment for our people. The remaining two RUGA centres will be commissioned in due course as the works have reached over 90 per cent completion.”
Jega Commends Zulum for Establishing “First of Its Kind Ranch in Nigeria”
News
Airstrike Hits Vigilantes, Residents in Zamfara, many Feared Dead
Airstrike Hits Vigilantes, Residents in Zamfara, many Feared Dead
By: Zagazola Makama
Many people were reportedly killed in another accidental Airstrikes in Tungar Kara community, Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, on evening.
Intelligence source told Zagazola Makama that the victims include members of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard (ZCPG), vigilantes, and residents of the community, who were called to respond to bandits incursion in the area.
The vigilantes were mistaken for bandits, shortly after the bandits had fled the scene.
“So far, 16 dead bodies have been retrieved, but the total number of casualties is not yet clear,” the source said.
The Nigerian military under Operation Fansan Yanma has been intensifying operations against banditry and terrorism in Zamfara and other parts of the northwest, which have been plagued by insecurity.
The troops successfully dismantled terrorists’ hideouts in the Fakai area of Shinkafi Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State, neutralizing 25 terrorists and rescuing seven kidnapped victims.
They also cleared several camps belonging to terrorist kingpins, including Bello Turji and Mallam Ila, in the Fakai axis.
Airstrike Hits Vigilantes, Residents in Zamfara, many Feared Dead
-
News10 months ago
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions3 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News10 months ago
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
ACADEMICS11 months ago
A History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns11 months ago
Army University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions11 months ago
Tinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
-
Opinions3 years ago
POLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
National News11 months ago
Fraud and Mismanagement Rock INGO’s IDP Cash Assistance Effort in Bama