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Tuggar: Departure of Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali from ECOWAS Has Not Affected Trade, Bilateral Relations Among West African Countries
Tuggar: Departure of Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali from ECOWAS Has Not Affected Trade, Bilateral Relations Among West African Countries
By: Michael Mike
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has said the exit of Burkina-Faso, Mali and Niger, the three Alliance of Sahel States from the West African regional bloc, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has not affected trade and bilateral relations among countries in the area.
Addressing a press conference on the forthcoming West African Economic Forum to be hosted by Nigeria, Tuggar said there has not been any notable distortion in trade and relations between the rest of the countries still in ECOWAS and the departing AES countries.
He said for instance Nigeria still has running the Nigeria-Niger Joint Commission and trade is as healthy as it used to be before the neighbouring country left ECOWAS.
Tuggar, who also added that there has not be any fission in relationship between the two countries, said the same thing can be said of other countries in the region with AES countries.
On the summit scheduled for 20th and 21st June 2025 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, the Minister expressed Nigeria’s readiness to host the inaugural event aimed at showcasing West Africa to the rest of the world.
Tuggar while noting that the forum, is an initiative of President Bola Tinubu and aimed at strengthening economic ties, unlocking investment opportunities, and promoting sustainable development across West Africa, added that the summit is designed to foster regional integration and economic cooperation among member states.
He said: “We’re not just talking about ECOWAS and ECOWAS states, but indeed to all states, businesses, private sector, development finance institutions that pertain to the West African region.
“What we’re talking about is regional integration. What we’re doing with each other. How do we strengthen that so that we’re trading more.
“The event aims to unlock investment opportunities by identifying and supporting investment-ready projects. Furthermore, the summit seeks to foster sustainable development by encouraging inclusive economic growth and development.
“The event will feature a range of activities, including a deal room, business conferences, and cultural events showcasing the region’s rich heritage.
“Overall, the West Africa Economic Summit promises to be a landmark event, driving regional integration, promoting economic cooperation, and fostering sustainable development in West Africa.
“With its unique approach and focus on private sector participation, the summit has the potential to unlock new opportunities for growth and development in the region.
“The summit will provide a platform for governments and the private sector to engage and address concerns related to security and other issues affecting business in the region.”
He also added that “The summit’s objectives align with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) ambitions, focusing on promoting intra-African trade by strengthening regional trade and investment.”
Tuggar also pointed out that the initiative will be driven by the private sector.
He noted that it is the private sector that will drive the initiative while the governments provide all the necessary support for them to excel.
The minister also highlighted the importance of peace and security in the region saying, “For business to take place, to thrive, the environment must be secure, emphasising the importance of collective efforts to address security challenges.”
He explained that: “The summit is not modelled after the World Economic Forum in Davos, but rather a novel, homegrown African original idea.
“We’re focusing this administration on preferring homegrown solutions to our problem, instead of copying and pasting what exists in other regions.
Tuggar revealed that the Alliance of Sahel States, AES, are invited for the summit.
Tuggar: Departure of Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali from ECOWAS Has Not Affected Trade, Bilateral Relations Among West African Countries
News
NGX’s N100 trillion milestone, proof of growing sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market- Stockbrokers
NGX’s N100 trillion milestone, proof of growing sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market- Stockbrokers
The Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) and the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON) have congratulated the Board, Management, and staff of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc and Nigerian Exchange Limited on the historic achievement of the Nigerian capital market crossing the N100 trillion market capitalisation mark.
The commendation was issued via a press statement on Friday, jointly signed by Mr Samuel Sehinde Adenagbe, Chairman, Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria and Mr Oluropo Dada, the 13th President/Chairman of Council Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers.
They described the NGX’s achievement as a remarkable milestone and a major affirmation of the resilience, depth, and growing sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market, and a clear signal of renewed investor confidence in the Nigerian economy.
“Crossing the N100 trillion threshold is not only a symbolic landmark; it reflects the capacity of Nigeria’s capital market to mobilise long-term funds for infrastructure, enterprise development, and economic transformation.
“It underscores the vital role of the market in financing growth, creating wealth for investors, and supporting national development objectives,” the said.
According to them, the achievement will not have been possible without the visionary leadership and strategic direction of the NGX Board, as well as the professionalism and dedication of its Management and staff, led by versatile stockbrokers: Dr. Umaru Kwairanga; Mr. Temi Popoola; and Mr. Jude Chiemeka and Mr. Femi Sobanjo.
“We also commend the unwavering commitment and versatility of dealing member firms and stockbrokers who continue to serve as the backbone of the market, ensuring liquidity, transparency, and investor protection.
“Their collective efforts have strengthened market integrity, broadened participation, and improved the overall efficiency of the Exchange.”
The CIS and ASHON also commend the Federal Government of Nigeria for providing a supportive macroeconomic and regulatory environment that has encouraged domestic and foreign investment, promoted market reforms, and enhanced the attractiveness of Nigerian assets.
They stated that policy stability, ongoing reforms, and a clear commitment to private sector-led growth have played a crucial role in creating the conditions for this historic market expansion.
They further commended SEC for providing sound regulations and market development.
They stated that the CIS and ASHON would continue to advocate ethical governance in the capital market with all stakeholder playing by the rules of the game.
They further restated their commitment to sustaining the momentum through robust regulation provided by Securities and Exchange Commission, market innovation, and strong investor protection frameworks.
“We look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to further deepen the market, broaden product offerings, and ensure that the Nigerian capital market continues to serve as a strong engine for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.”
NGX’s N100 trillion milestone, proof of growing sophistication of Nigeria’s capital market- Stockbrokers
News
Troops neutralise bandit, recover arms in Plateau raid
Troops neutralise bandit, recover arms in Plateau raid
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, under the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have neutralised a notorious bandit and recovered arms and ammunition during a raid on a hideout in Plateau State.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was conducted on Jan. 8 at Yolan Gboka–Yama Da Lahdi, following sustained efforts to track and arrest perpetrators of the Dec. 16, 2025 attack on illegal miners at Tosho community in Fann District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

According to the sources, troops made contact with the bandits during the raid and engaged them in a firefight.
“One of the bandits was neutralised during the exchange of fire and was later identified as Sadiq Isah, while others fled the area,” the sources said.
The sources added that troops subsequently exploited the hideout and recovered two AK-47 rifles and 162 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition.
The recovered arms and ammunition are currently in military custody, while troops have commenced follow-up operations to intercept the fleeing suspects and prevent further criminal activities in the area.
Zagazola reports that Operation Enduring Peace is a joint security initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability across Plateau and neighbouring states.
Troops neutralise bandit, recover arms in Plateau raid
News
FG Urges NSCDC to Boost Intelligence as Interior Minister Decorates 113 Senior Officers
FG Urges NSCDC to Boost Intelligence as Interior Minister Decorates 113 Senior Officers
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has called on the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to strengthen intelligence gathering and operational readiness in the face of rising security threats across the country.
The call was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a ceremony to decorate 113 newly promoted NSCDC commandants. The minister, represented by the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Corrections, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin (Rtd), commended the Corps for its role in protecting critical national infrastructure, lives, and property.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized the need for strategic intelligence mapping to counter emerging threats, particularly as the Corps now shoulders additional responsibilities for the protection of Very Important Personalities (VIPs), a role previously managed by the Nigeria Police Force.
He encouraged the newly promoted officers and all personnel to uphold the confidence placed in the service by President Bola Tinubu, noting that the merit-based promotions are designed to boost morale and enhance performance.
The Commandant General of NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Audi, urged the officers to mentor subordinates, embrace leadership responsibilities, and adhere strictly to merit-based postings. He warned against lobbying for preferred postings, affirming that performance and dedication would guide all administrative decisions.
Representing the promoted officers, Commandant Ekanem Ekpenyong pledged unwavering commitment to duty, promising to uphold integrity and the Corps’ Oath of Allegiance.
In a key highlight of the ceremony, the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Afolabi Babawale was promoted to the rank of Assistant Commandant. The event also featured goodwill messages from the Controller General of Corrections, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, and representatives from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and the Department of State Services.
The ceremony underscored the Federal Government’s resolve to strengthen the NSCDC and reinforce its role in Nigeria’s security architecture.
FG Urges NSCDC to Boost Intelligence as Interior Minister Decorates 113 Senior Officers
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