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VP Shettima sets up committee, says Nigeria’s future linked to HCD

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VP Shettima sets up committee, says Nigeria’s future linked to HCD

By: Our Reporter

In a bid to drive the goals of the Human Capital Development (HCD) programme of the federal government, Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday approved the constitution of a multi-sectoral committee.

The multi-sectoral team made up of the federal and state governments as well as donors and partners is expected to convene every two weeks to review the progress of work in addressing the objectives of the HCD programme.

This was the outcome of the VP’s meeting with World Bank’s Country Director for Nigeria, Shubham Chaudhuri; the Chairman of the Dangote Foundation, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr Tony Elumelu, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, among others at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

At the meeting, Sen. Shettima stressed the need for government and partners to invest in human capital development to create a workforce that is not just globally competitive but also adaptable to the modern demands of the 21st century.

He said, “This gathering marks our collective recommitment to redirecting the promise and potential of our human capital towards safeguarding the economy. It’s an honour to host you and I eagerly anticipate celebrating the success of the initiatives uniting us.

“Our presence today signifies a tacit understanding that our future is intricately linked to the development of our human capital. We have witnessed the growing shift towards knowledge and service-based economies and the advantages they offer, particularly to our youths,” VP Shettima stressed.

Acknowledging the significant impact the two Nigerian wealthy businessmen, Dangote and Elumelu, have had on the population, the Vice President noted that every society rises and falls depending on the quality of its leadership.

Earlier, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Pate, noted the current efforts the federal government has made, putting the people at the centre of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’, even as he underscored the importance of investing in human resources.

He noted that going forward, stakeholders involved in the Human Capital Development programme of the Tinubu administration will reinforce and harness existing data to ensure accountability and accuracy in the implementation of programmes and projects under the initiative.

Prof. Pate expressed optimism that the renewed efforts at fast-tracking human capital development across different levels and tiers of government would attract interest from all stakeholders, including international partners and donor organisations.

On his part, the Chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, commended the foresight of Vice President Shettima in convening the meeting, noting that it underpins the commitment of the Tinubu administration to addressing challenges around human capital development.

While pledging his support for the administration’s HCD programme, Dangote called on stakeholders to work diligently towards tackling the challenge of inaccurate data, describing it as the biggest problem in the task of addressing human capital development.

In the same vein, the Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr Tony Elumelu, pledged his support for the federal government’s initiatives towards Nigeria’s Human Capital Development.

“We will support you; our commitment is guaranteed. This is a laudable idea,” Elumelu stated.

For his part, the World Bank Country Director, Nigeria, Mr Chaudhuri, pledged the bank’s support for the HCD programme of the federal government, especially in the areas of technical assistance and strengthening of databases.

Remarks were also made by representatives of other partners such as the Nigerian Governors’ Forum Secretariat, British High Commission, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNICEF and JICA, among others.

In March 2018, the National Economic Council (NEC) had at its Special Session launched a dedicated Human Capital Development programme, in response to Nigeria’s dismal performance in all global indexes of human capital development.

The HCD programme represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to address its human capital development challenges and position itself for sustainable growth and prosperity.

The programme’s comprehensive framework and multi-stakeholder approach provide a solid foundation for achieving its ambitious goals.

It aims to address the challenges faced by Nigeria in areas such as education, health and labour force participation.

To drive the programme, NEC had set up a Steering Committee chaired by the Vice President and comprising representatives from the Senate, House of Representatives, and key ministries.

The committee is also represented by the governors of six geopolitical zones, as well as representatives of development agencies.

The programme is guided by a Steering Committee comprising high-level representatives from the government, private sector, and development agencies, which oversees the implementation of the programme and ensures alignment with the National HCD Vision.

A Core Working Group (CWG) has also been established to work directly with states to ensure the practical implementation of the HCD programme at the local level.

The CWG comprises representatives from relevant ministries, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the Organized Private Sector, and donors.

The HCD programme focuses on three thematic areas: Health and Nutrition, Labour Force Participation and Education, and six essential human capital development areas, including under-five mortality rate, malnutrition, adult mortality, expected years of school, quality of learning and labour force participation rate.

VP Shettima sets up committee, says Nigeria’s future linked to HCD

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NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices

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NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices

By: Vincent Ikuomola

The National Directorate of Employment has distanced itself from the message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide.

NDE in its disclaimer said the message is fake and it did not emanate from its office.

The Directorate therefore urged the general public to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.

NDE management also said any official announcements, programmes, or directives from it are communicated through verified channels such as its official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.

The agency stated in a disclaimer: “The attention of the management of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has been drawn to a message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide, claiming the registration will last for three weeks and encouraging the public to share the information widely.

“The NDE wishes to categorically state that this information is false and did not originate from us. The public is advised to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.

“Any official announcements, programmes, or directives from the NDE are communicated through verified channels such as our official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.

“We urge the public to verify any information attributed to the NDE to avoid being misled by false or unauthorized communications.

NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices

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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

By: Michael Mike

Nigeria has reaffirmed her commitment to fostering global sustainability at the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Week held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who made the reaffirmation on behalf of the Nigerian government,
emphasized the country’s unwavering dedication to sustainable development, climate action, and energy transition.

He also highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role as a key player in Africa’s green energy transition and its commitment to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Tuggar also stated that “the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week provides an important platform for nations to collaborate, innovate, and accelerate solutions to global sustainability challenges. Nigeria is committed to fostering international partnerships and implementing policies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. As Africa’s largest economy, we recognize our duty to lead by example and champion a sustainable future for our continent and the world.”

The highlights of Nigeria’s participation in the event included showcasing the country’s Decade of Gas Initiative, which positions natural gas as a transitional energy source while scaling investments in renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

The Minister reiterated Nigeria’s ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 and outlined ongoing projects such as afforestation programmes, renewable energy infrastructure, and climate-resilient agricultural practicesbeing undertaken by the government.

He also noted Nigeria’s willingness to partner with international stakeholders to finance and implement innovative solutions in clean energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development, while advocating for increased support for African nations in climate financing, technology transfer, and capacity-building, stressing the importance of inclusivity in global sustainability efforts.

He said: “The world is at a critical juncture where the choices we make today will define the legacy we leave for future generations. Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with our global partners to ensure that no nation or region is left behind in the quest for a sustainable future.”

The Minister, on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extended gratitude to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates for hosting the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and fostering dialogue on these crucial issues.

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

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KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity

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By: Michael Mike

In a bid to address the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers
Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has urged the National Assembly to allocate adequate funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development.

As various Federal Ministries, Parastatals, Directorates, and Institutions appeared before the National Assembly to defend their 2025 budget. KACRAN passionately appeal for their support in prioritizing the Ministry of Livestock Development, insisting that this is essential for fostering peace and stability in the country.

In a statement on Friday, the association outlines the rationale for its request to include: “New Ministry with Significant Potential, Established by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to resolve the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers while enhancing food security and economic productivity. By creating millions of jobs and attracting investment in the livestock sector, this ministry holds
great promise.

“Leadership of High Calibre: KACRAN is optimistic about the ministry’s success under the leadership of distinguished individuals such as Honourable Alhaji Idi Muktar, the pioneer minister and a seasoned livestock farmer, along with Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma
Akujobi, a Veterinary Doctor, and Mrs. Winnie Lai Solarin, the dedicated Director of Animal Husbandry Services. Their commitment to advancing government policies will significantly
benefit the livestock sector.

“Empowering Voiceless Beneficiaries: It is crucial to advocate for the voiceless beneficiaries residing in remote areas, who often have limited access to government services. The establishment of this ministry provides a vital opportunity for our members to become direct beneficiaries of national resources.

“Significant Presidential Support: The President has demonstrated a strong commitment to the livestock sector through the establishment of this ministry and the appointment of qualified personnel. It is imperative that the National Assembly recognizes the importance of this ministry
in the upcoming budget discussions

“Need for Structural Support: The Ministry currently lacks essential infrastructure necessary for its effective operation. Therefore, we urge members of the National Assembly to provide special
consideration and favorable budget allocations to ensure the ministry’s success.

“Consequences of Inadequate Funding: Insufficient funding could severely hinder the ministry’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities, which would have negative repercussions for the entire country. The livestock sector is vital for our economy, contributing significantly to revenue
generation and providing essential products consumed by nearly all Nigerians.”

KACRAN said: “In light of the numerous benefits that an effectively functioning Ministry of Livestock Development can bring, once again we appeal to members of the National Assembly to consider multiplying or tripling the proposed budget for this ministry. Such action will pave the
way for increased agricultural production, job creation, economic growth, resolution of conflicts between herders and farmers, and the establishment of lasting peace in Nigeria.”

It extended heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu for establishing the Ministry
and the appointment of capable leadership, while calling upon all Northern Governors to expedite the establishment of similar ministries in their states.”

KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity

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