National News
Our Youths Will Transition Nigeria Into Digital Economy Powerhouse – President Tinubu

Our Youths Will Transition Nigeria Into Digital Economy Powerhouse – President Tinubu
- As African countries commit to greater financing, digital access at IDA21 Summit:
- Resolve to mobilise domestic resources for Africa’s economic transformation
By: Our Reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared on Monday that Nigeria is set to harness the potential of its youthful population to transform into a global digital economy powerhouse.
He also hinted at the nation’s plans to become a global hub for outsourcing talent within the digital and creative economy.
This was the submission made by President Tinubu who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the meeting of African Heads of State and Government on the 21st Replenishment of the International Development Association (IDA21) in Nairobi.
This is just as African Heads of State and Government committed countries on the continent to strengthen implementation capacities, mobilising domestic resources, and partnering effectively with IDA to accelerate the continent’s economic transformation.
President Tinubu also reiterated Nigeria’s plans to build a vast digital market capable of absorbing cutting-edge innovations and technologies, positioning the country as a hub for outsourcing talent in the digital and creative economy spheres.
“Being a young country with a median age of about 18, our interventions in the digital economy have been so extensive that we are no longer boasting of having the most unicorns, but preparing to serve as a global hub for outsourcing talents,” the President stated in his submission titled “The Path to Recovery: Nigeria’s Journey Beyond Sabotage”, which was delivered to the Summit by VP Shettima
President Tinubu informed other African leaders of the sweeping reforms implemented by his administration to curb illicit activities and currency manipulation that had long hindered the nation’s progress.
“Since assuming office, President Tinubu has remained steadfast in fulfilling his promise to end the reign of economic saboteurs who have long exploited and hindered the progress of our nation. I am pleased to report that our economy has escaped the phase of sabotage,” the VP noted.
Alongside the digital transformation agenda, President Tinubu said Nigeria is committed to prioritizing climate resilience and becoming an attractive destination for carbon market investments.
“The tensions resulting from climate-induced disruptions serve as a pressing call to action. The profound impact of climate change on our continent’s security underscores our dedication to transforming innovative concepts from conference discussions into tangible actions. We aim to become an investment-friendly destination for carbon market investments,” the organ was informed.
He expressed Nigeria’s belief that the summit’s communiqué would reflect the collective needs of African and IDA countries, capturing their “nuances, consensus, dreams, and projections.”
President Tinubu listed key priorities for Nigeria’s economic recovery in his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, anchored on poverty alleviation, to include economic expansion, job creation, enhanced access to capital, food security, and inclusivity.
He also stressed the importance of regional economic integration through instruments like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement to dismantle investment barriers and facilitate access to international markets.
“Our path to the future depends on nurturing strategic partnerships with other nations and development organizations. Therefore, we will utilize our absolute and comparative advantages to establish partnerships across borders,” the President said.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the President of Kenya, William Ruto, said the summit was urgent because it was “convened at a critical juncture facing a convergence of global crises which include escalating geopolitical tensions that challenge international unity, a deepening development and debt crisis that threatens our economic stability, and an urgent climate emergency that demands immediate and collective action for our planet’s survival.”
He gave instances of the devastating impact of severe flooding in the East African region which, according to him, has displaced thousands in Nairobi alone, and the vulnerability of the continent to extreme weather patterns, which points to the critical role of the IDA in financing Africa’s development and stability.
“This new normal demands our immediate and united action to safeguard our collective future. This underscores the critical role of IDA for Africa Summit as a cornerstone for financing for Africa. IDA has directed 75% of its total commitment which is nearly $26 billion to Africa in the last fiscal year with African countries comprising 8 of IDA’s top 10 borrowers. This support is not just financial but it’s a lifeline for development and stability,” President Ruto said.
Also speaking, the World Bank President, Ajay Banga, expressed optimism about Africa’s potential, saying “it’s very easy to feel hopeful when we’re together anywhere in Africa,” adding that you feel the infectious energy of young people.”
Banga affirmed the IDA’s commitment to accelerating progress on the continent, vowing to “move with urgency and purpose,” while making the institution more efficient and impactful.
“We stand at the crossroads of a new era of growth and prosperity for Africa,” he said.
At the end of the Summit, African Heads of State and Government adopted a joint communique committing countries on the continent to accelerate the continent’s economic transformation by strengthening implementation capacities, mobilising domestic resources, and partnering effectively with IDA.
They also called for an ambitious replenishment of the International Development Association (IDA) to support the continent’s development goals.
The Nairobi Communique described IDA as Africa’s largest source of concessional financing, outlining priorities for IDA21 to include building human capital, creating jobs, boosting energy and digital access, enhancing resilience to climate change and fragility, and promoting inclusive growth policies.
Our Youths Will Transition Nigeria Into Digital Economy Powerhouse – President Tinubu
National News
Beyond condemnation, why Governor Kefas must act decisively to end karim lamido crisis

Beyond condemnation, why Governor Kefas must act decisively to end karim lamido crisis
By: Zagazola Makama
The latest attack on Munga Lelau community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State has once again thrust the fragile security situation in the region into national focus. The attack, which reportedly occurred on Friday evening, left many dead and communities in mourning.
In response, Governor Agbu Kefas swiftly condemned the incident, describing the carnage as “horrendous and unacceptable.” In a press statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, the governor expressed outrage at the continuous assaults, warned of grave repercussions for the perpetrators, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to securing the state.
However, while such condemnation is commendable and necessary to signal empathy and political will, what is urgently required now is a comprehensive, transparent, and sustained response that goes beyond words. The time has come for Governor Kefas to not only condemn the attacks but also to lead a full-fledged, fact-based investigation into what truly transpired and why.
The attack in Munga Lelau is not an isolated case. It follows a recent incident in Bandawa where two farmers were reportedly killed by suspected bandits. This recurring pattern of violence often fueled by retaliatory attacks between farmers and herders points to deeper, unresolved tensions in the Karim Lamido axis. While the rainy season usually heightens competition for land and water resources, what we are seeing is the escalation of low-grade communal tension into full-blown armed conflict.
Security forces have, on several occasions, brokered peace accords between aggrieved parties. Yet, these agreements have often been short-lived. Just Yesterday, troops under Operation Lafiyan Jamaa had to intervene after youths from Badanwa reportedly attacked herders grazing near their village, sparking reprisals and further bloodshed.
This cycle of provocation and retaliation is precisely why Governor Kefas must now go beyond condemning the violence and institute a full investigation. There is a growing concern that certain individuals referred to as “conflict entrepreneurs” may be exploiting these tensions for personal or political gain. These actors must be identified and held accountable, regardless of ethnic or political affiliation.
Equally, justice must not be selective. All sides must be heard, and those found culpable, whether among farmers or herders, must face the full weight of the law. Only a fair and balanced approach can restore confidence in government intervention and prevent further descent into lawlessness.
To achieve lasting peace, the state government must adopt a three-pronged approach:
Deploy additional security personnel to flashpoints in Karim Lamido and impose necessary restrictions, including curfews, where needed to prevent reprisal attacks. Peace committees comprising community leaders, religious heads, and youth representatives should be activated or reconstituted to immediately de-escalate tensions.
Establish an independent investigative panel to ascertain the root causes of the recurring violence. This panel should be empowered to take testimonies, review previous peace accords, and recommend actionable strategies. Simultaneously, set up mobile courts to fast-track justice delivery and deter impunity.
Develop and implement a comprehensive land-use and grazing policy, supported by modern conflict resolution training and dialogue platforms across LGAs. More investments should also go into education, vocational training, and rural infrastructure to address some of the socioeconomic drivers of insecurity.
Taraba must not be allowed to slide into a theatre of unchecked violence. Now is the time for Gov. Kefas to lead boldly, ensuring not only that peace is restored but that it is sustainable, just, and inclusive.
Beyond condemnation, why Governor Kefas must act decisively to end karim lamido crisis
National News
NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war

NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war
By: Michael Mike
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration of the United States (DEA) have stressed the need to strengthen current collaboration between the two agencies on the fight against the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
This was the highpoint of discussion during a meeting between the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Buba Marwa (Rtd) and the Country Attache of US-DEA, Ms. Daphne Morrison on Friday at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja

Marwa, while appreciating the cordial
working relationship and partnership between NDLEA and DEA, Ms. Morrison who was recently posted to Nigeria said “I wanted to make this one of my priorities to come meet with you so we can continue to collaborate and work together.
“And thank you so much for your support over the years, and we’re ready to keep things going. I know you’ve been working well with the last Country Attaché, so I’m ready to get back in and collaborate and do some really great things with you.”
She said efforts are ongoing to organise more trainings for officers and men of the Special Operations Units of the afency Amwhile looking forward to a number of joint operations with NDLEA in already identified areas of interests.
In his response, the NDLEA boss acknowledged the excellent relationships with Morrison’s predecessors. He said: “They’ve been very, very supportive, and I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that it will be the same, if not better, with you.” He acknowledged the recent evolution of NDLEA in the size of its workforce, expansion of operational and administrative structures as well as remarkable successes recorded in its drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.
While acknowledging the support received from DEA over the years especially in areas of equipment, training, and joint operations, Marwa expressed hope that more of such support will continue. “I think we would welcome much more support but because this being your first visit to introduce yourself, I’m not going to bring out a long list of demands or requests, but just to acknowledge that we appreciate all the support we’ve been receiving.”
NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war
National News
APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership

APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership
By: Michael Mike
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has affirmed its unwavering commitment to the one-China principle, recognising Taiwan as an integral part of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
Speaking in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, the APC National Vice-Chairman (North-East), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, said the party is in full alignment with the federal government’s diplomatic stance.
He said: “Nigeria is unequivocally committed to the One-China Principle. Consequently, the policies and principles of the APC will mirror those of our federal government in diplomatic matters.
“China is a significant partner for our nation; they regard us as equals rather than a lesser nation. This perspective fosters a relationship of mutual progress. Therefore, it is wise for the government to support the one-China principle.”
Salihu reiterated the APC’s firm support for the government’s diplomatic policies, stating, “As a party, we stand resolutely behind the one-China principle.”
He praised the positive outcomes of Nigeria-China diplomatic relations, particularly in trade, investment, and infrastructural development.
He said: “Our partnership with China has yielded substantial results. We have witnessed the construction of extensive roads, bridges, and railways by Chinese companies, with counterpart funding from the Chinese government.
“In addition, projects such as the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) natural gas pipeline and various free trade zones in Nigeria have been funded, in whole or in part, by Chinese institutions. Chinese enterprises are eager to establish factories and businesses in Nigeria, and many are already contributing to our economy,” he noted.
He attributed the influx of foreign investment in Nigeria to the APC administration’s business-friendly policies, including amendments to the Companies and Allied Matters Act, which have streamlined processes for investors.
He expressed the party’s readiness to strengthen ties with the Communist Party of China (CPC) through collaboration in cultural exchange, trade, education, and human capital development.
He said: “We are dedicated to fostering mutual growth and reinforcing our historic partnership.”
APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership
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