International
UK Expresses Interest at Partnering with Abia to Boost Nigeria’s Economy
UK Expresses Interest at Partnering with Abia to Boost Nigeria’s Economy
By: Michael Mike
The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery has expressed the interest of United Kingdom to develop partnership with Abia State aimed at boosting Nigeria’s economic prosperity.
Montgomery who was in Umuahia, the Abia State Capital between the 20th and 21st of August for high-level discussions with the state governor, key government stakeholders, and business leaders, made the disclosure.
He said: “Visiting Abia State for the first time was a great opportunity to engage and interact with key stakeholders.
“Abia state is key to boosting Nigeria’s economic prosperity and the UK is committed to driving that growth.
“We very much want to develop our partnership – both with the state government and the good people of Abia State – to enhance prosperity in the region.”
On his part, the UK’s Country Director for the Department for Business and Trade, Mark Smithson said:“The UK’s Department for Business and Trade in Nigeria is well placed to support the Abia State government and the private sector to drive trade in the state.
“We look forward to building on discussions we had, strengthening our ties and exploring areas of collaboration and partnerships to boost trade, and deliver prosperity to both our countries.”
During the two-day visit, the High Commissioner visited the Abia State Governor, His Excellency Alex Otti where they discussed prosperity opportunities and future priorities that could be beneficial to the state and the UK.
Together with the Governor, the High Commissioner attended the graduation ceremony of the State-Level Inclusive Digital Transformation Programme funded through the UK’s Digital Access Programme (DAP). The programme is designed to bridge the digital skills gap by delivering relevant and applicable digital skills for the state’s civil servants.
The High Commissioner also visited the Geometric Power Company, met the team developing the Abia Innovation Industrial Park, and the Aba Chamber of Commerce.
He also toured an industrial fair showcasing small and medium scale manufacturers. Discussions focused on the opportunities for growth and partnerships with UK businesses where possible. He sought their insights and advice on efforts to advance UK investment in the state.
The UK delegation included the UK’s Country Director for the Department for Business and Trade, Mark Smithson, and the British High Commission’s Political Counsellor, Tom Burge. They also visited the National War Museum in Umuahia which showcases the history of Nigeria.
UK Expresses Interest at Partnering with Abia to Boost Nigeria’s Economy
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has extended its warm congratulations to Germany on the successful election of Friedrich Merz as the new Chancellor. The Conservative Leader
won with 325 votes in the 630-Seat Bundestag on Tuesday, 6th May, 2025.
A statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa read: “Nigeria commends Germany’s strong democratic traditions and values, which have once again been demonstrated through a peaceful and transparent electoral process. We are confident that under Friedrich Merz’s leadership, Germany will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing global peace, stability, and prosperity.
“As longstanding partners, Nigeria looks forward to deepening bilateral relations with Germany in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, security, and sustainable development. We also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other international fora.
“The Nigerian government and people wish the new Chancellor a successful tenure and express our readiness to work closely with Germany for the benefit of both nations and the global community.”
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 years.
The departed Holy Father, the political head of Vatican City and the head of the Catholic Church, was described in the statement as a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people.
The statement read: “Nigeria commiserates with the teaming population of the catholic church in the country and joins the international community, particularly the Catholic faithful worldwide, in mourning this immense loss. Pope Francis’ deep concern for the marginalized; including refugees, the poor, and victims of conflict, resonated strongly in Nigeria, where his calls for interreligious harmony and solidarity were a beacon of hope amid challenges.
“His historic 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, including the suffering of Indigenous peoples, indeed set a powerful example of reconciliation. Also worthy of commendation is his advocacy for peace in Africa, and other conflict areas in the world, reflecting his universal pastoral mission.”
The statement further read that: “In this moment of grief, therefore, Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic Church, and the Argentine people, who gifted the world this extraordinary pontiff.
“We pray for the repose of his soul and trust that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and care for our common home will endure.”
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
Chinese National Abducted in Durumi Abuja, as Kidnappers demand N300million ransom
By: Zagazola Makama
A suspected abduction occurred on April 18, 2025, when Mr. Yangi Ming, a Chinese national working at Panda Supermarket in Jabi, was reportedly abducted by unknown individuals.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that Mr Yangi Ming left his residence at Stargate Apartment in Durumi around 1700hrs and was last seen wearing brown shorts and a black polo shirt.
His sister, Aisha Pan, residing in Sharanda, Kano State, later received a ransom demand of ₦300 million, made from Yangi Ming’s mobile phone number.
Chinese National Abducted in Durumi Abuja, as Kidnappers demand N300million ransom
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Uyo Kingdom Issues Public Declaration Abolishing GBV, Harmful Traditional Practice Against Women
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