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Nigeria, Japan to deepen bilateral relations, to strengthen security, economic ties
Nigeria, Japan to deepen bilateral relations, to strengthen security, economic ties
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria and Japan on Tuesday agreed to deepen bilateral relations between both countries.
The agreement was reached during the visit of Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko to Nigeria.
Nigeria is the first country, sub-Sahara Africa that Yoko will be visiting sincer her appointment as Foreign Minister late last year.
Speaking after a closed door meeting with his Japanese counterpart, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, Tuggar said they discuss various issues bothering on economy, security amongst others.
He disclosed at a joint press conference, that both parties agreed on the need to increase trade volume between both countries.
He said: “We held fruitful and open discussions on topical issues that are of importance to our bilateral relations including economic cooperation, collaboration in international affairs, the crisis in the Sahel region as well as other regional issues.
“During our discussions, Ms. Yoko and I agreed that although Nigeria and Japan enjoy robust economic relations, there is need for engagements in that regard in order to increase the volume of trade between both countries. We discussed the opportunities for investment in the Nigerian market, particularly in areas of Manufacturing, digital technology, solid minerals and capacity building. Both sides have agreed to leverage on the outcomes of this meeting towards ensuring deeper economic collaborations.
“We talked about cooperation with Japan to address the root cause of terrorism and instability in the Sahel region as well, as the issue of Boko Haram in North Eastern Nigeria. We agreed on the crucial need for all stakeholders to shore up efforts towards combatting the ugly menace of terrorism within the region. On her part, the Japanese Foreign Minister has assured of the continued support of her government towards ending the crisis within the regions.
“Other issues bordered on cooperation between Nigeria and Japan at International Fora. We shared common views regarding the much-needed reform at the United Nations Security Council, for a balanced geographical representation, the need for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation of arms as well as the need for increased advocacy for Women, Peace and Security (WPS).
“Nigeria considers Japan an important partner in bilateral, regional and global affairs. We held extensive discussions on the upcoming 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Summit in 2025, as well as the Ministerial Meeting coming up in August, this year. I have assured Minister Kamikawa of Nigeria’s continued active participation at the TICAD Summits.”
The Japanese Minister, on her part pledged her country’s support for economic amd political stability of Nigeria and other countries in gulf of Guinea.
She said: “I had a candid discussion with Minister Trudeau on strength nomic relations, support for the political and economic stability of Nigeria and other coastal countries of Gulf of Guinea and enhancements of cooperation on Africa and global issue.
“At the outset I welcome the economic relations between the two countries are being dynamically strengthened, powered and achievements of virtuous cycle in which both economies can grow together, including the recent expansion of the investment for startups and from venture capital and arrangements or new developing cooperation in the areas of food security and health.
“Futher, we shared a view to deepen our cooperation to link Japanese financial resources and technology with Nigeria’s vitality and to create a virtuous circle in which both countries businesses and economies can grow together.
“With regard to supporting the political and economic stability of Nigeria and other coastal countries of Gulf of Guniea, I explained that Japan attaches great importance to the stability of Northeast Region of Nigeria and has been improved with providing assistance to communities and displaced persons.
“Also, I shared the recognition with the minister to the both countries are concerned about the prolonged instability in the Sahel region, and that it is important to contribute to peace and stability of the Sahel region and coastal countries of Gulf of Guinea and to promote their sustainable growth.
“On strengthening cooperation in Africa and global issues, we share the view on enhancement of cooperation in international arena. Including disarmament and the WTF.
“Especially with regard to WPF. We also share the view to further strengthen cooperation in the field of the WPS with Nigeria. We’re many women in the octave through Japanese efforts which we would incorporate perspective of the WTF if you guys didn’t know give us
“In the lead up to the ticket Minister meeting in August this year and ticket nine in August next year? It’s just how will futher and runs our partnership with Nigeria, an important partner in CO creating and developing solutions to Africa and global challenges?”
The Japanese Minister, who also paid a visit on the United Nations Women promised his country’s continued support for the activities of the organisation especially interventions in the North East of Nigeria.
The Country Representative of UN Women in Nigeria, Ms. Beatrice Eyong thanked her for the visit, acknowledging the support of Japan in the activities of UN Women.
Nigeria, Japan to deepen bilateral relations, to strengthen security, economic ties
News
Gombe guber: APC clears Gwamna to contest in 2027
Gombe guber: APC clears Gwamna to contest in 2027
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially cleared Dr Jamil Isyaku Gwamna to participate in the forthcoming gubernatorial race in Gombe State.
This is contained in a press statement issued to journalists in Gombe on Saturday by Mr Ibrahim Sani Shawai, the media aide to Dr Gwamna.
According to the statement, the screening took place today at Kaduna State Governor’s Lodge, Plot 37,Jose Marti Street, Asokoro, Abuja and was
conducted in line with the provisions of the party’s constitution and internal guidelines governing the nomination process.
The statement read that the screening committee headed by Dr Benjamin Obi Nwoye stated that Gwamna had satisfactorily fulfilled all constitutional and procedural requirements necessary to participate in the party’s governorship process ahead of the upcoming elections.
Responding shortly after the screening, Dr Gwamna expressed appreciation to the leadership of the APC for conducting what he described as a transparent, credible, and rigorous exercise aimed at strengthening internal democracy and ensuring quality leadership within the party.
“I am honoured to have successfully gone through this important constitutional process of our great party. This exercise further strengthens confidence in the democratic values and internal structures of the APC,” he stated.
Gwamna reaffirmed his determination to consolidate the developmental strides recorded in Gombe State under the leadership of Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON.
“Our vision is to ensure that, Gombe State works better for every citizen, regardless of background or status. We are committed to building on existing achievements while introducing new ideas that will further improve the lives of our people,” Gwamna added.
The APC governorship candidate also commended the performances of Governor Inuwa Yahaya and Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying their leadership and developmental achievements have continued to strengthen public confidence in the APC at both state and national levels.
According to him, the visible progress recorded under the current administrations would further energise the party’s support base and make the APC’s campaign message more compelling to the people.
Gwamna also called on party members and supporters to remain united, disciplined, and focused, stressing that the success of the APC in Gombe State depends on collective effort, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to progress.
Gombe guber: APC clears Gwamna to contest in 2027
News
One killed, five injured during violent clash at peace meeting in Plateau
One killed, five injured during violent clash at peace meeting in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
A peace meeting between local residents and Fulani community members in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State turned violent on Thursday, leaving one person dead and five others injured after youths allegedly attempted to disarm soldiers deployed to maintain security during the engagement.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 3:00 p.m. on May 7 at Mier village, where troops of Sector 8 under Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), deployed at Fier guard post, had organised a stakeholders’ meeting aimed at easing tensions between locals and Fulani residents in the area.
The sources said the meeting was part of ongoing confidence-building and peace restoration efforts by security forces following recent incidents of communal violence, cattle rustling, reprisal attacks, and growing mistrust between farming and pastoral communities across parts of Plateau State.

According to the sources, the meeting was progressing peacefully before a group of agitated youths reportedly became hostile and attempted to forcefully seize the rifles of two soldiers providing security at the venue.
“The situation suddenly turned violent when some youths moved aggressively toward the troops and attempted to disarm two soldiers,” a security source said.
The source added that amid the struggle and confusion, one of the soldiers discharged his weapon in self-defence to prevent the mob from overpowering the troops.
Following the incident, one local resident sustained fatal injuries and was later confirmed dead, while four other civilians and one soldier were injured during the confrontation.
The injured persons were immediately evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment, while the corpse of the deceased was deposited at the General Hospital morgue in Pankshin.
Security operatives subsequently reinforced the area to prevent further breakdown of law and order, while efforts were intensified to calm tensions among residents.
The four youths who attacked the soldiers were arrested.
The latest violence occurred amid heightened security concerns and recurring communal clashes across Plateau State, where troops of Operation Enduring Peace have continued to conduct patrols, peace engagements, arrests, and intelligence-driven operations to contain reprisals and attacks involving armed militias, bandits, and cattle rustlers.
Military and community leaders have repeatedly urged residents to avoid taking the law into their hands and to cooperate with security agencies to sustain peace efforts across the state.
One killed, five injured during violent clash at peace meeting in Plateau
News
ISWAP suffer losses after failed attack on Buni Gari
ISWAP suffer losses after failed attack on Buni Gari
By: Zagazola Makama
ISWAP terrorists suffered heavy losses in the early hours of Thursday after troops of Operation HADIN KAI repelled an attack on Headquarters 27 Brigade, Buni Gari, and a nearby checkpoint in Yobe State.
The terrorists had launched a coordinated assault at about 2:00 a.m. from multiple directions but were stopped by troops who held their ground and responded with superior firepower.
The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, said the attackers were forced to retreat after coming under intense resistance.
He said several of the terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, while others fled with injuries.
“Exploitation of the general area confirmed the recovery of terrorist corpses and weapons in bushes and along withdrawal routes,” Uba said.
He added that traces of blood were found along escape routes, indicating that the fleeing attackers sustained significant injuries.
Uba explained that air support from the Air Component Command provided surveillance coverage during the operation, helping troops track movement of retreating fighters.
He said precision air interdiction was also carried out on confirmed fleeing elements, further increasing the losses suffered by the attackers.
Recovered items include AK-47 rifles, machine guns, RPG tubes, ammunition, magazines and other military-grade weapons used in the failed assault.
He said troops, working with hybrid forces, are continuing clearance operations in the area to prevent regrouping of the attackers.

Uba also confirmed that two soldiers died during the encounter, while wounded personnel are receiving treatment and are in stable condition.
He said Operation HADIN KAI remains committed to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups and denying them freedom of action in the North-East.
ISWAP suffer losses after failed attack on Buni Gari
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