The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Banditry: Global peace prize awaits Tinubu, Matawalle – Centre for Peace

    Banditry: Global peace prize awaits Tinubu, Matawalle – Centre for Peace

    The Centre for Peace Advocacy in Africa (CPAA) has tipped President Bola Tinubu and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for a prestigious global peace prize.

    The group said this is in recognition of their exemplary contributions to enhancing sustainable worldwide peace and innovative solutions to local and international security challenges.

    In a statement signed by its Director, Ochonu Williams, President Tinubu’s administration has made significant strides in tackling insecurity, fulfilling his Renewed Hope promise to Nigerians.

    Under his leadership, Williams said targeted military operations have successfully neutralized notorious bandit groups, restored hope among Nigerians, and minimized civilian casualties.

    He added that community engagement initiatives have also been established, addressing underlying grievances and promoting social cohesion.

    Williams praised the Federal government for dialogue channels with local stakeholders that have fostered greater cooperation and trust between communities and security agencies.

    He said that economic empowerment programs have provided alternatives to vulnerable populations, reducing the allure of banditry and enhancing economic stability in affected regions.

    Meanwhile, Williams said Matawalle has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the fight against banditry, with notable successes including enhanced intelligence gathering, boosted security presence, and support for troops.

    “President Tinubu’s administration has made significant strides in tackling insecurity, fulfilling his Renewed Hope promise to Nigerians,” Williams added. 

    “The fight against banditry requires sustained effort and commitment. President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle’s leadership has charted a promising course to promote peace, security, and development.

    “President Tinubu’s leadership has resulted in targeted military operations against bandit groups, neutralizing notorious kingpins and restoring hope among Nigerians. These operations have been carried out with precision, minimizing civilian casualties and ensuring the protection of innocent lives.

    “Community engagement initiatives have addressed underlying grievances and promoted social cohesion. President Tinubu’s administration has established dialogue channels with local stakeholders, fostering greater cooperation and trust between communities and security agencies.

    “Economic empowerment programs have provided alternatives to vulnerable populations, reducing the allure of banditry. These initiatives have created job opportunities, improved livelihoods, and enhanced economic stability in affected regions.

    “Matawalle has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the fight against banditry. His recent visit to the northwest led to the killing of notorious bandit kingpin Halilu Sububu. This significant breakthrough is a testament to the Minister’s commitment to eradicating banditry. 

    Read Also: Tinubu declines assent to bill seeking to extend National Assembly staff retirement age

    “President Tinubu and Matawalle’s collaborative efforts have yielded notable successes. There is improved intelligence gathering has facilitated more effective strategic operations. Enhanced collaboration between security agencies has resulted in better information sharing, enabling targeted operations against bandit groups.

    “The deployment of additional troops to affected areas has boosted security presence and deterrence. This increased military presence has reassured communities of the government’s commitment to their safety.”

    The CPAA believes President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle’s efforts warrant international recognition, sending a strong message that Nigeria is committed to protecting its citizens.

  • Yahaya Bello: Coalition urges National Assembly to address petition against EFCC

    Yahaya Bello: Coalition urges National Assembly to address petition against EFCC

    A coalition of civil society organisations has urged the National Assembly to act swiftly on a petition filed against Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

    The group stated that the petition, which was submitted in May, accused EFCC officials of assaulting peaceful protesters at the commission’s headquarters.

    The protesters, consisting of various civil society groups and Kogi youths, were demonstrating against the EFCC’s non-compliance with a court order related to a case involving former Kogi state governor, Yahaya Bello.

    Reacting, the coalition condemned the EFCC’s actions, citing abuse of court processes and the use of state instruments to stifle civic space.

    Recall that Yahaya Bello was declared wanted by the EFCC but was not interrogated or arrested when he voluntarily presented himself at the commission’s office.

    The coalition, in a statement signed Tuesday, September 24, by its convener, Benjamin Oguche, called on the National Assembly to launch an investigation into the EFCC’s handling of Bello’s case and the commission’s overall conduct.

    Read Also: Yahaya Bello: APC group condemns EFCC over invasion of Kogi lodge

    “Till date, the EFCC has not told Nigerians what transpired when Yahaya Bello willingly submitted himself for questioning, instead they have adopted propaganda, half-truths, and outright lies in a desperate attempt to redeem a fatally battered image. Nigerians are fully aware of the theatrics and antics and, therefore cannot be fooled.

    “We are therefore demanding that the chairman of EFCC, Ola Olukoyede be immediately summoned by the National Assembly for questioning regarding the abuse of court processes for which the reputation of the EFCC under him is at an all-time low, including the use of state instruments to stifle the civic space.

    “Also, we demand that the relevant committee of the National Assembly should immediately launch an investigation on how EFCC failed to interrogate Bello upon arrival at its Abuja office.

    “We also demand that the world is made to know exactly why a man declared wanted was not allowed to be interrogated after presenting himself as required,” the statement partly read.

  • Kogi women protest alleged persecution of Yahaya Bello

    Kogi women protest alleged persecution of Yahaya Bello

    A huge crowd of women in Kogi State took to the streets at the weekend to protest what they described as the alleged persecution of former Governor Yahaya Bello by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    Calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call the EFCC to order, they insisted that the former governor had done more than any governor of the state for the people since its creation.

    The women, led by various community leaders and party faithfuls, converged on the state capital, Lokoja, to condemn what they also described as a “witch-hunt” by the EFCC.

    They called on the President to urgently intervene in the matter by directing the EFCC to allow the courts to do their jobs.

    They argued that with the actions of the EFCC on Wednesday, it was clear that the agency’s allegations against Bello were politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing his reputation, adding that they would not fold their arms and watch him lose his life.

    “We stand with our leader, Yahaya Bello in this trying time. We believe he has been targeted unfairly and we demand justice. We won’t watch him lose his life,” one of the protesters, identified as Hajiya Halima Abass, said.

    “The EFCC should focus on genuine cases of corruption, not political vendetta,” another protester, who simply identified herself as Mrs. Boluwaji, added.

    Read Also: Niger Delta: Troops kill two armed vandals, arrest 18 others in war against economic sabotage

    The various women group leaders, who spoke in their local dialects – Igala, Ebira, Yoruba and others, urged the EFCC to be professional in its “handling of the case against the state leader, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.”

    They chanted songs, saying that Kogi people were fearless people and reiterated that they would not stand by and continue watching what they called a show of shame, especially after the former governor had made himself available to EFCC.

    They wondered why the EFCC refused to interrogate or detain him while he was in their office but rather went shooting at night at the Kogi Government Lodge to arrest a man who had voluntarily walked up to them earlier in the day.

    “We Kogi people of Ebira descent cherish what our son, Yahaya Bello, did for us as governor. That is why we’re out on the streets to ask EFCC to leave him alone.

    “We are not giving him out to anyone to crucify. He will come back to us hale and hearty,” one of the women leaders from Ebiraland, who simply identified herself as Hajiya Fatima, said.

    “We, the Igala people from Kogi East, we are here because of our leader, Alhaji Yahaya Bello. He has never done anything bad to us. To those people that are looking to take him, please leave him alone. We have never seen the kind of his government before. He did well for the state,” another women leader who identified herself as Mrs. Deborah said.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq: The Roadmaster in Kwara

    Governor AbdulRazaq: The Roadmaster in Kwara


    By Yushau A. Shuaib

    Before critiquing my choice of word, let me clarify what I mean by “Roadmaster.” This term could mean an official responsible for maintaining railroads, an overseer of road repairs, or even a bicycle brand famed for its versatility. In the context of road construction and maintenance, it describes someone who excels in upgrading infrastructure, making it an apt moniker for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State.

    During my recent trip to Ilorin, after an absence of six months, I was struck by the visible transformation of the capital city. The expansive roadwork, featuring rehabilitation of existing routes and the construction of new ones, offers compelling evidence of positive change under the leadership of AbdulRazaq, fondly known as AA or RR due to his compound name.

    Our only encounter was in December 2021 when he graciously welcomed a team from Image Merchants Promotion Limited (publishers of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential and other titles) into his office in Ilorin. His genuine warmth, personal engagement, and sincere interest in our work left an indelible mark, fostering a sense of connection.

    During the meeting, facilitated by the Governor’s Special Adviser Abdulrazak Jiddah and spokesperson Abdulrafiu Ajakaiye, I was impressed by his humility, especially in light of my past criticisms regarding the demolition of Ile-Arugbo. Despite facing scrutiny over what some perceived as excessive frugality with public funds, our discussions unveiled his vision to ensure Kwara is among Nigeria’s most prosperous and peaceful states.

    Read Also: Flood: Pan-African Parliament declares support for Nigerian victims, others

    Compared to many Northern states grappling with banditry and terrorism, Kwara is a beacon of relative safety in the North-Central region. This achievement speaks to the current administration’s innovative security strategies, which have successfully shielded the state from the violent criminalities affecting neighbouring areas.

    Although he faces political opposition and criticism concerning his governance style, Governor AbdulRazaq’s achievements are undeniable. His substantial contributions to major road networks have elevated the pride of residents and visitors. The administration has initiated significant road projects aimed at improving connectivity within the state and beyond.

    Major thoroughfares and inner roads are at various stages of construction. Noteworthy projects include improvements to the streets leading from the airport to Al-Hikmah University and the routes connecting to PRNigeria Centre at Airforce Road, Oloje Federal Housing Estate. With interlocked roads in its hinterlands, many of the ageing roads are receiving attention.

    New flyovers like the Tunde Idiagbon Bridge and Unity Flyover reshape the city’s landscape, minimise travel time, and enhance the capital’s beauty. The Wahab Folawiyo Road along Unity Road boasts the quality and aesthetics characteristic of Africa’s capital cities. Similarly, Ahmadu Bello Way and Sulu Gambari Road contribute to a newfound urban elegance.

    At least, 35 inner roads are either completed or in various stages of completion in Ilorin, while a number of others are underway. They include the 4.7km Yebumot-Adeta-Oloje route, the 13km Ile Ire District road and the first post-colonial Orisa Bridge (Oro Ago). Other projects include Arandun-Esie-Oro and Omu Aran-Oko roads.

    In Kwara’s north, the government initiated the 128-kilometre Bode Saadu/Kaiama/Kosubosu road, the 74.3km Bacita-Shonga-Lafiagi route, among others, totaling over N400 billion in investments. When completed, the Bode Saadu road will alter the travel dynamics for commuters from Ilorin. In addition, the Emir Palace Road, erosion control at Dumagi, and routes within/near Baruten contribute to a rural road network of 84.7km.

    The governor is working to restore order with the new Ilorin City Master Plan (Smart City Project) which allows the expansion of the capital while respecting sustainable living principles without compromising our rich cultural heritage as Africans. The initiative targets economic growth through hospitality, agribusiness, innovation, tourism, and vital human capital and healthcare investments.

    Furthermore, AbdulRazaq has cleared over ₦15 billion in salary/promotion arrears and overhauled educational infrastructure in more than 605 schools. There is also a new dental centre, eye care facility, intensive care units, upgraded hospital wards, an international conference centre, an industrial park, an agro-processing zone, and Nigeria’s largest garment factory, all aimed at bolstering the local economy.

    The governor is committed to gender inclusivity and youth empowerment, exemplified by the inclusion of dynamic young leaders to his cabinet. 29-year-old Hon Abdulquawiy Olododo serves as the Commissioner for Works and Transport, overseeing substantial road networks and infrastructure development in the state—an inspiring illustration of youth involvement in governance.

    However, a pressing concern, particularly in the Ilorin Emirate, is the increasing presence of Almajiri beggars. Their numbers not only create a nuisance around the Emir’s palace and the central mosque but also pose potential security threats to the community, especially in light of the challenges faced by surrounding states plagued by armed banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

    As the Chairman of the Governors Forum, AbdulRazaq has a unique opportunity to lead a national crusade against the Almajiri phenomenon. By addressing this issue head-on, he can set a powerful example for other state leaders. He should advocate a coordinated response that would prioritise social well-being across the country.

    AbdulRazaq’s economic vision stands on the pillars of hospitality, creativity, entertainment, agribusiness, entrepreneurship, and tourism—an achievable dream underpinned by a commitment to developing human capital and a robust healthcare system. The ongoing evolution of Kwara is a testament to the promising future that lies ahead under his leadership.

  • WOFAN commissions centre for women, persons with disabilities, others 

    WOFAN commissions centre for women, persons with disabilities, others 

    The Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN), has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Women’s Centre and a marketing hub for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Kudai, Jigawa State. 

    The event which coincided with the 2024 World Peace Day also marked the launch of a solar-powered water project aimed at transforming the lives of over 500,000 households across Kudai and its neighbouring communities.

    The new facilities, including the Women’s Centre, which is equipped with advanced rice parboiling and milling equipment, and a fully operational marketing hub for PWDs, are part of the WOFAN-ICON2 Project in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation. 

    The project is designed to provide sustainable employment opportunities for youth, women, and individuals with disabilities, aged 18 to 35, across ten Nigerian states, including Jigawa.

    Highlighting the significance of the initiative, the Executive Director/Founder of WOFAN, Hajia Salamatu Garba emphasised that it responds to the heart-wrenching call from Ahmadu Yakubu, a young man with a severe disability who, despite his circumstances, strives to earn a living rather than resort to street begging. 

    Inspired by his resilience, Garba noted that  WOFAN has expanded its efforts to support the wider community, providing essential resources and opportunities.

    “The new solar-powered water project, featuring 12 water points across Kudai and neighbouring areas, will address the longstanding water needs of the community, which has relied on a deteriorating open well for over a century,” Hajia Salamatu stated.

     The project also includes the distribution of 24 tricycle carriers, each worth ₦3 million, to agro-commodity loaders and transporters, as well as hand-operated tricycles for 40 individuals with limited mobility.

    The ceremony was graced by His Highness, the Emir of Dutse, who led the commissioning of the solar-powered borehole, a vital resource valued at ₦18 million, aimed at supporting community vegetable gardening and orchard development.

    The initiative also sees the launch of five additional Women’s Centres in Aujara, Yakasawa, Taraya, Gunka, and Damatawa. Each centre is equipped with essential facilities, including seating arrangements, water points, and machinery for food processing. 

    The centres will receive startup capital and resources to boost local agro-businesses, particularly in light of current challenges surrounding food security in the nation.

    This comprehensive intervention is set to empower 57,500 young individuals with disabilities and 9,000 young agro-loaders and transporters across the targeted states. 

    This, she said, reflects WOFAN’s commitment to fostering community growth and inclusivity, regardless of ethnicity, political affiliation, gender, or social status.

    “The WOFAN-ICON2 Project is a five-year initiative dedicated to generating decent and sustainable employment opportunities for youth, particularly women and persons with disabilities, aged 18 to 35. This effort is part of the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy, aiming to enhance the quality of life for young participants across ten Nigerian states. Jigawa State is proud to be one of those states, as we enter the second year of project implementation.

    “Today, we are glad to announce our commitment to empowering approximately 57,500 young individuals with disabilities (PWD) and 9,000 young agro-loaders and transporters across our targeted states in Nigeria  happening concurrently to mark the 2024 world peace day

    “Here in Jigawa State, we are undertaking the following initiative to include commissioning Six Women’s Centres – all similar to the one we are commissioning in Kudai today. These six centres are located in Aujara, Yakasawa, Taraya, Gunka, Damatawa, and Kudai. They are fully equipped with seating facilities, water points, rice parboiling equipment, hammer mills for grinding cereals and producing flour, rice destoners, and rice polishers. 

    “Each centre will also benefit from two sets of 1115 motor engines and a startup capital of ₦1,500,000 to facilitate food processing, particularly crucial given the current challenges surrounding food security in our nation. In kudai the center will receive N1,800,000 because they have 6 groups in their cluster.

    “Today, we will distribute 24 additional tricycle carriers, each valued at ₦3 million, to our clusters of agro-commodity loaders and transporters who have diligently saved up to ₦450,000 in their accounts. Additionally, 40 individuals with limited mobility will receive hand-operated tricycles, enhancing their mobility and enabling them to engage actively in their daily pursuits with dignity.

    “Through our efforts, we aim to create a culture of peace and economic empowerment, promoting sustainable development and self-reliance in our communities,” Garba added.

  • Kano converts Sa’adatu Rimi varsity to degree-awarding COE

    Kano converts Sa’adatu Rimi varsity to degree-awarding COE

    The Kano State Executive Council (SEC) has approved the conversion of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education, Kumbotso, into Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, now a degree-awarding institution.

    In line with this decision, Governor Abba Yusuf dissolved the university’s management, instructing the Vice Chancellor to transfer responsibilities to the most senior deputy.

    The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Baba Dantiye, revealed that the conversion followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

    According to him, “the decision aims at enhancing educational quality and maintaining effective management.”

    He said SEC acted on the recommendation of a high-powered committee appointed by the State Government which looked into the status of the university and charted the way to enhance its academic quality.

    “The committee’s findings highlighted concerns from the academic and non-academic communities and other stakeholders regarding the potential negative impact of the transition to university status.

    “Especially that the college is serving multiple kinds of students from non-metropolitan areas due to its strategic location and access,” he said.

    Read Also: Barau lauds Tinubu for upgrading FCEs Kano, Zaria to federal varsities of education

    According to the commissioner, the concerns include the risk of losing experienced lecturers, salary-related conflicts, and administrative challenges that could hinder the institution’s operational efficiency.

    It was gathered that SEC had reasoned that several similar institutions in Nigeria have successfully operated as colleges of education while offering a variety of degree programmes without transforming into university status, under the “Dual Mode” introduced by the NCE-regulated body.

    “The conversion is expected to have no adverse effects on students, as the current undergraduates in the College will continue with their studies.

    “Also, the certificate of the University will be safely kept for future use. Moreover, the institution will continue to offer both its traditional courses and additional degree programmes in line with its new expanded academic mandate,” Dantiye was said to have been quoted

  • Lawyers Alert files suit against Fed Govt over Benue State IDP crisis

    Lawyers Alert files suit against Fed Govt over Benue State IDP crisis

    A leading human rights organisation in Nigeria, Lawyers Alert, has initiated a legal action against Federal Government and the Attorney General of the Federation at the Federal High Court in Makurdi, over the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State.

    The lawsuit seeks to address Benue State IDP crisis with a specific focus on the government’s failure to provide adequate security and facilitate the return of displaced citizens to their ancestral homes.

    The Director in charge of Legal Department at Lawyers Alert, Bamidele Jacobs, said the objective was to ensure the fundamental rights of the effected vulnerable groups were upheld.

    Read Also; Alleged ritual, kidnapping: Police confirm incident in Abuja

    He said: “The lawsuit is grounded in provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, both of which guarantee the right to life, dignity, personal liberty and security.

    The lawsuit highlights the legal obligations of the Federal Government to protect the lives and property of its citizens, particularly IDPs in Benue State as enshrined in sections 33(1), 34(1), 35(1), and 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantee the rights to life, human dignity and personal liberty.  

  • Abdulrazaq visits Bode Saadu over Arinun bridge flooding

    Abdulrazaq visits Bode Saadu over Arinun bridge flooding

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday visited Bode Saadu town to sympathise with its residents following recent downpours that overflew the Arinun Bridge and initially submerged many houses in the area.

    Accompanied by Commissioner for Special Duties Hon. John Bello and Special Adviser (Special Duties) Abdulrazaq Jiddah, the Governor went round the affected areas in the community to have a firsthand account of the situation.

    Residents commended the Governor for the visit, which they said demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of the people.

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    “We are here to commiserate with the people of Bode Saadu and make sure that everybody is okay and look at the causes of the flood,” he told reporters on the sideline of the visit.

    “We have realised that with the major work going on with the dualisation of the Ilorin-Mokwa Road by the Federal Ministry of Works, they have built a temporary bypass. Somehow, there are some challenges around the bypass, which experts will look into. That is the cause of the flooding. The Director of Highway Federal Ministry of Works and other experts are on their way here to find an immediate solution to the problem. We have also deployed the State Emergency Management Agency for some relief measures,” he said.

    The Governor also appealed to residents to always steer clear of setbacks, adding: “One of the major challenges we have nationwide is people not observing setbacks. It is a major problem. Half of the buildings wouldn’t have been affected if they had observed the right setbacks.

    “We will intensify our efforts to ensure that people observe setbacks for the safety of all.”

    John Bello, who hailed from the axis, commended the Governor for the visit.

  • Clean Energy: ECOWAS targets production of 0.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030

    Clean Energy: ECOWAS targets production of 0.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030

    The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has set an ambitious target to produce 0.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, aiming to drive clean energy production across the region.

    This target was discussed during a capacity-building workshop for private sector stakeholders on green hydrogen, held on Thursday, September 19, at Nordic Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The Regional Coordinator for Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen at the West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), Dr. Bruno Korgo, highlighted the region’s vast renewable energy potential, including solar, wind, and hydrogen.

    He emphasised that these resources create a strong foundation for green hydrogen production, which is regarded as a key element in decarbonising sectors globally.

    Dr. Korgo also underscored the significant potential for the region to produce, use, and export green hydrogen, which could position West Africa as a key player in the global clean energy market.

    He said: “In the West African Green Hydrogen Policy, the target is for the West African region to be able to produce by 2030, 0.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen per year and by 2050, 10 million tonnes per year. This policy has been adopted by our heads of state.

    “But the ministries of energy have to work to make it happen and that is why we are partnering with the government and private sector to join hands so that we may reach our goal.

    “This unique energy is today perceived as the energy of the future. The opportunity to produce, use, and export green hydrogen to other demand centres appears like an opportunity for the West African region to start now to think about green hydrogen to harness its potential and also capture the future energy market that is coming with regard to green hydrogen demand.”

    Speaking at the workshop, Temitope Dina, Assistant Director of Nigeria’s Ministry of Power, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to leveraging green hydrogen for economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability.

    He emphasised the role of green hydrogen in reducing carbon emissions and diversifying energy sources.

    According to Dina, the target has been marked by dedication, collaboration, and a clear understanding of the pivotal role green hydrogen will play in the energy future.

    Read Also: ECOWAS commits $12.6m to assist victims of terrorism, disaster in 2024

    He said: “Green Hydrogen stands at the forefront of the global transition to clean energy. It offers the promise of reducing carbon emissions, diversifying our energy source, and also fostering innovation.

    “In our region, with its abundant renewable energy resources, green hydrogen could be a game changer. This could stimulate our local economy, and industries, create jobs, and provide a significant boost to our economies across West Africa.

    “This workshop represents a critical opportunity for us to deepen our understanding of the green hydrogen technology, explore best practices, and build the partnership necessary for the successful implementation of the green hydrogen policy and strategies.”

    The workshop was seen as a critical step in advancing the understanding of green hydrogen technology and fostering partnerships necessary for the successful implementation of ECOWAS’ green hydrogen policies.

  • Tetra Pak promotes sustainability, innovation at Propak Nigeria 2024

    Tetra Pak promotes sustainability, innovation at Propak Nigeria 2024

    The managing director of Tetra Pak West Africa, Haithem Debbiche, has expressed the company’s commitment to sustainability and investment in Nigeria’s packaging industry.

    He spoke at the recently held Propak exhibition, where he highlighted how Tetra Pak aims to align its operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while addressing pressing issues such as food safety and waste reduction.

    With over 50 years in Nigeria, Tetra Pak is not only showcasing its innovative packaging solutions but is also eager to engage with local stakeholders.

    “Our vision is to make food safe and available everywhere. As a leader in food packaging, Tetra Pak is committed to using renewable, responsibly sourced materials,” Debbiche stated, noting the importance of environmentally friendly products that extend shelf life without refrigeration, thus benefiting local producers.

    Debbiche also further addressed the alarming food waste issue in Nigeria, estimating that around 40% of agricultural production is lost annually.

    Tetra Pak’s recent initiative to introduce smaller packaging sizes such as 50 ml containers for evaporated milk aims to tackle this problem by catering to consumer needs and reducing waste.

    Debbiche noted that Tetra Pak is working on innovative packaging solutions, including a shift towards paper-based products that enhance recyclability. The company has partnered with local recycler Wecyclers to collect and process used cartons, ensuring they are recycled rather than discarded improperly.

    Reflecting on the future, Debbiche expressed optimism about the African market, stating that while the continent may lag in sustainability initiatives, Tetra Pak is pioneering efforts that could lead to significant advancements.

    He called for supportive government policies to foster investment and improve the value chain in the packaging industry.

    Read Also: Tetra Pak wraps ‘Dairy Dairies’ campaign

    While Tetra Pak currently operates without a local factory, Debbiche mentioned there is a possibility of starting operations if demand increases significantly. “We need to sell three times more to make that submission for investment,” he explained.

    During the first day of the industry event, Tetra Pak’s Sustainability Manager for Maghreb and West Africa, Aida Gaha, alongside Clement Sunday, Marketing & Portfolio Director for Tetra Pak West Africa, led a presentation titled: “Enabling the Transition to Secure, Sustainable, and Resilient Food Systems.”

    The presentation explored the company’s recycling programs and efforts to reduce packaging waste across West Africa. Tetra Pak’s commitment to fostering economic growth was showcased, with an emphasis on collaborative efforts to provide essential equipment and training to improve productivity. “Small steps,” they noted, “can create significant community impact.”