International
US Brings 400 Young Nigerian Leaders Under Her Initiative
US Brings 400 Young Nigerian Leaders Under Her Initiative
By: Michael Mike
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has announced the successful conclusion of the Nigerian Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network’s 6th annual National Conference, themed “Beyond Limits: Innovation for Sustainable Development.”
According to a statement, the two-day event brought together over 400 young Nigerian leaders from 36 Nigerian States between the ages of 18-35, to foster collaboration and drive sustainable development across the nation through keynote speakers, panel discussions, and interactive activities all focused on the participants’ role in sustainable development.
The conference left five YALI Network members with on-the-spot job offers and HP gave away eight laptops to the winners of a business pitch competition.
The YALI Network National Conference served as a testament to the strong partnership between the United States and Nigeria in supporting youth empowerment and sustainable development.
The U.S. government, through initiatives like YALI, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to nurturing the potential of young African leaders who are driving positive change in their communities. The United States provides online courses and materials to the YALI Network of over 200,000 members in Nigeria and throughout Africa; while connecting members with global leaders in their fields to help members develop leadership skills through speaker programs and by supporting conferences, such as the one that took place August 25-26 in Abuja.
U.S. Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Officer, Julia McKay, delivered a keynote address which highlighted how the U.S. government supports young people in advancing the shared goal of achieving sustainable economies and inclusive communities in Nigeria.
She stated that “studies have shown that nations with gender parity and inclusion experience more economic growth and development, less conflict, and higher literacy rates. Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our initiatives and programs, like YALI Stands for All…as well as the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), and the Tech Women and Tech Girls’ exchange programs. And these are just some examples of how we work with our Nigerian partners to advance our common goals and interests because we believe that by strengthening our people to people ties, we can build a more prosperous, secure, and democratic future for both of our countries. And we recognize the important role that young people like you play in the future of Nigeria. We will continue to provide opportunities like the YALI Network to equip young Nigerians with the skills and connections that they need to foster change in their communities.”
The YALI Network Summit’s “Beyond Limits: Innovation for Sustainable Development” theme aptly captured the spirit of collaboration between the United States and Nigeria in building the capacity of Nigerian young leaders to advocate for a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for Nigeria. The U.S. Embassy remains committed to supporting initiatives that empower the youth and drive sustainable development in Nigeria.
The U.S. Embassy also highlighted that the application period for the 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship opened on August 15 and will close on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. The fellowship is open to all Nigerians between the ages of 25 and 35 who are passionate about positive change and development in their communities.
US Brings 400 Young Nigerian Leaders Under Her Initiative
UK Expresses Commitment to Restoration of Peace in Northeast
By: Michael Mike
The United Kingdom has expressed its commitment to the restoration of peace, stability and sustainable solutions to the troubled Northeast region which has been bedeviled by insurgency.
The British Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Atkinson made the commitment on Monday when she paid a courtesy call on Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum in Maiduguri.
Atkinson who commended Zulum for his commitment to fighting insurgency in Borno, said: “On behalf of the British Government, I recognise the effort of His Excellency, the Governor, in tackling insurgency and supporting the people of Borno State, particularly aiming to secure a prosperous future for the people displaced by insurgency.
“I want to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to supporting peace, stability and sustainable solutions, particularly through the ongoing regional stabilisation facility.”
Responding, the Secretary to Borno State Government who received the Deputy High Commissioner on behalf of Governor Zulum, expressed appreciation to the UK Government for their partnership and support.
He said,: “With the UK Government to start with, we have quite a number of very strong partnerships. His Excellency appreciates it, and he specifically instructed me to convey the special message of appreciation.”
The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Environment, Engr Emet Kois, Education, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, Work and Housing, Engr Mustapha Gubio, Transport and Energy, Aliyu Mohammed Bamanga and Inter-Governmental and Special Duties, Tukur Shani.
Others in attendance include Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Abdullahi Ishaq, the Senior Technical Assistant, Political, to the Governor, Alhaji Tahiru Shettima, Permanent Secretary of political and cabinet, Danjuma Ali, and the Executive Secretary of Borno State Agency for Coordination of Sustainable Development and Humanitarian Response (BOACSDHR), Babakura Mamman Gadai.
UK Expresses Commitment to Restoration of Peace in Northeast
Troops Foil Bandit Attack in Dabai Town, Kebbi
By: Zagazola Makama
A swift response by the Nigerian troops in Kebbi has foiled a bandit attack on Dabai Town, forcing the assailants to flee after a gun battle with security operatives.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the attack occurred around 2 a.m. when suspected bandits attempted to invade the town.
“Security forces were immediately dispatched to intercept the assailants and engaged them in a fierce exchange of gunfire,” the source said. “Overwhelmed by superior firepower, the bandits abandoned their mission and escaped.”
While no casualties were reported, security operatives have intensified patrols in the area to prevent further attacks.
Troops Foil Bandit Attack in Dabai Town, Kebbi
U.S. Condemns Killing of Catholic Priest in Kaduna
By: Zagazola Makama
The United States Mission in Nigeria has condemned the brutal killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, describing it as a senseless act of violence.
In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the U.S. Mission expressed deep distress over the incident and extended condolences to the family, congregation, and community of the late cleric.
“We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence. Our thoughts are with them during this time of profound grief,” the statement read.
The mission also called on Nigerian authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Father Okechukwu’s killing has sparked outrage and renewed calls for enhanced security measures, especially in regions affected by banditry and violent attacks.
The Kaduna State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but security agencies are reportedly investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
U.S. Condemns Killing of Catholic Priest in Kaduna
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