Tag: FG

  • FG begins repair of electricity towers for northern blackout

    FG begins repair of electricity towers for northern blackout

    Engineers of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) have commenced work to restore bulk power supply in the North.

    Special Adviser, Public Communication and Orientation to President Bola Tinubu, Sunday Dare, confirmed the repairs.

    On October 22, TCN reported a power outage in the north-east, north-west and parts of north-central after the 330 kV Ugwaji–Apir double circuit transmission lines 1 and 2 tripped around 4:53am “due to a fault”.

    Apart from Niger and Kwara, 17 states in the North are without electricity supply in the last two weeks.

    The worst affected are Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Gombe and Katsina, which have not had supply in the last two weeks.

    Others are Sokoto, Zamfara, Bauchi, Yobe, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Niger, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kogi and Benue.

    Read Also: Urgent need to restore electricity in the North

    Dare, on his x (formerly Twitter), said: “Shiroro-Kaduna Line Vandalization Repairs. This picture speaks. There is a massive ongoing effort to fix the lines and restore power to the affected areas.

    “Since President Tinubu gave marching orders, efforts have tripled with constant briefings.

    “We applaud the TCN Engineers up there for the risks they take and their national service.”

  • FG negotiates 30 percent discount for airport cab passengers

    FG negotiates 30 percent discount for airport cab passengers

    The Federal Government through its Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) has signed agreements with Airport Taxi Operators and 800 cabs for a 30% discount for passengers on the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport routes in Abuja.

    The taxis are to secure free of charge conversion of their vehicles to CNG fueling, which is over 70% cheaper than the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) petrol and consequently discount their passengers fares. 

    Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, P-CNGI Program Execution Coordinator, Mr. Folarin Oworu said the incentive came on the heels of the surge in petrol prices.

    He said although the discount will start from 30 per cent, it may increase to 40% upon the conversion of all the fleets.

    “We have all seen the surge in price to implement  because of the increase in petrol prices. 

    “And now because of this conversion incentive program, we will ensure we pass on the savings to the customers.

    ” This 30 per cent we are doing now, we are hoping when we have fully converted the complete fleet, may be it can be reduced more than 40,” he said.

    He said the conversion partners were up and doing to hasten the take off of the discount. 

    There airport taxis operators own about 800 and the discount will become effective upon the conversion of their 50 per cent.

    Speaking, spokesperson of the Abuja Air cabs operators, Mr. Aliyu Ali, said with the CNG, the operators may not need to service their vehicles regularly. 

    According to him, in the next two to three weeks, most of the carbs would have been converted for the implementation of the 30 per cent discount.

    He said: “Signing this agreement today, we are looking forward to when we see most of our vehicles converted within a very short time. 
    “May be two to three weeks time and we start business that is when you will see the airport taxi fare will start coming down and passengers will start patronizing us more than the other cabs.”

    Read Also: FG seeks stronger collaboration to cut off terrorism financing

    He expressed gratitude to President Ahmed Tinubu for the free of charge conversion of cabs.

    A taxi driver, Emmanuel Sunday, appealed to the P-CNGI to establish more CNG points on the airport Road, noting the only one fueling point is always congested.

    A conversion centre operator, Tunis Salma, said in line with the pact with the P-CNGI , they were prepared to sign all the carbs available for conversion.

    He said they have the capacity to execute the project in accordance with the agreement.

    He said: “Based on the agreement signed by the airport taxis and the conversion centres, we the conversion centres are willing to convert all the available cars. And we have all it takes to convert all the cabs.”

  • FG set to concession Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, Enugu airports

    FG set to concession Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, Enugu airports

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has stated that five Nigerian airports are set for concession. 

    The Minister made this known while receiving the Regional Vice President of Africa and Middle East of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

    Keyamo, in a statement by the Ministry’s Spokesman, Odutayo Oluseyi, said the five International airports for concession are Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Port Harcourt International Airport, Aminu Kano International Airport, and Akanu Ibiam International airport, Enugu.

    The minister thanked IATA for indicating interest in offering the advisory role to Nigeria and for coming at a crucial time when the concession is about to take off.

    Keyamo said the level of infrastructure decay within the aviation industry calls for urgent action. 

    He said going by the geographical location, Nigeria is the aviation hub for Africa and the world at large.

    He called on investors to avail themselves of the opportunity in the aviation sector, stating that Nigeria’s aviation industry is ripe for both local and foreign investors.

    He appealed to IATA to speak to other investors and notify them that President Tinubu’s led government is making huge sacrifices to reposition Nigeria’s aviation industry to a global standard.

    He stated that with the coming back of Italian Airlines and United Arab Emirates, the Nigerian aviation sector is about to wear a new look, and the government is putting a lot in place to open the market for all operators.

    The Regional Vice President of Africa and Middle East-International Air Transport Association, Kamil Awdhi, stated that the essence of the visit was to indicate that they are willing to offer the advisory role to Nigeria in the concession process.

    Read Also: Counter-terrorism: FG to acquire 24 M-346 jets, 10 Trekker helicopters 

    Awdhi while stating that Nigeria is a big market that no investor can afford to look away, promised that IATA as an Advisor has no financial cost to Nigeria.

    Explaining the role of IATA as a trade association representing the global air transport industry with the aim of promoting safety, security, and efficient air transport, foster collaboration among airlines, airports, provide professional development, training and facilitate industry standards and best practices, Kamil emphasised the need to organise a workshop to educate the stakeholders on the need for concession and to know that the concession plan is different from privatisation.

    He affirmed that IATA is ready to support Nigeria develop her aviation sector.

    He also said that IATA is at the verge of signing MoU with Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to audit all aircrafts flying in Nigeria.

  • FG seeks support for children eye security

    FG seeks support for children eye security

    …as Reps unveils plans to initiate legislative backing for eye security

    The federal government has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting eye health, emphasising the crucial role good vision plays in the nation’s development and security.

    This is as a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Emeka Idu, unveiled plans to rally lawmakers and key stakeholders to push for legislation aimed at improving eye care, particularly for children.

    The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, underscored the vital link between good eyesight and overall health, noting that its importance cannot be overstated.

    Pate spoke on Saturday at the Children’s Sight Marathon, a part of the activities to commemorate the 2024 World Sight Day, organized by the Optometrist and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria(ODORBN) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and National Eye Health Programme(NEHP), where he emphasized the need to promote and prioritize eye health at a young age.

    Speaking on the relevance of the theme of the event, Love Your Eyes, Kids, the Minister, who was represented by the Director of Hospital Services at the Ministry, Olawale Salaudeeen, urged parents and caregivers to prioritize their children’s eye health by encouraging good nutrition, regular exercise, and routine eye check-ups.

    He said it is everyone’s responsibility to spread the message about the significance of eye care, adding, “This kind of exercise can help to detect if there’s anything that is wrong with the health of a kid. Just like I said, it’s the entry point to all the parts of the body.

    “That’s why in the New Hope Agenda of the current administration, the issue of the eye is being taken seriously and not to sit down in the city office to do this but get down to the grassroots.

    “You can see the primary school students, they are here, the secondary are here. At least there’s an enlightenment and a campaign, which means when it comes back to the primary school, they will disseminate the information that it is good to promote your high sight through good meals, good exercise and regular check-ups”.

    The member representing Onitsha North/Onitsha South Federal Constituency, Idu said the promotion of eye health among children should be prioritized.

    He said: “Legislative support will also be sought. A potential bill to support eye health initiatives will be crafted in collaboration with leaders, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing this critical issue.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Wike, commended for improving infrastructure

    He also emphasized the need for collective effort, saying, “Effective change cannot be achieved alone, This initiative aligns with the Nigerian National Assembly’s response to constituents’ demands for development and federal presence”.

    Similarly, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Bennett Igweh, in charge of Zone 7, Abuja, while explaining the importance of the eye, noted that the primary security human has is the security of the eye.

    While speaking further, he said the security of the eye is the primary of all securities, adding that equipment is the secondary aspect of the security.

    “It is the security of the eye because it’s what you see that matters. What you are able to see with an ordinary eye can be through cameras, but you must see something before you can activate something and before you can say something.

    “That’s whatever you can do to preserve your eyesight, enabling you to see and ensuring your own security and that of others – your neighbourhood, brothers, sisters, and the nation as a whole. When you see something, you’ll be able to say something,” he said.

    Earlier, ODORBN Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Obinna Edwin-Awiaka said the marathon concept was initiated to introduce healthy exercises to better eyesight.

    “The focus is on children. That is why children are here. We want to encourage the children to exercise, come out in the sunlight, and have vitamin D.

    “You don’t have to be in the air-conditioned car, air-conditioned office and air-conditioned classroom, no, come out and exercise, get a bit of vitamin D.

    “We coined this program run to end blindness. This activity is to bring people together to have marathons and short races at the point of doing it, they are exercising and making sure the eyes are healthy”.

    Encouraging parents and caregivers not to take away the greens from the breakfast table, he said: “Give them vegetables, give them fruit, and let them also find ways to exercise their eyes by doing eye exercises. We have what we call the 2020 principle, 2020 rule.

    “That means for every 20 minutes they are looking at the computer or their devices, they look away at 20 feet for 20 seconds, that way their eyes will be healthy.”

  • FG, partners sign agreement for $3.3b BFPCL

    FG, partners sign agreement for $3.3b BFPCL

    The federal government on Friday, October 11, signed a Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement (GSPA) with Shell Petroleum Development Company (SDPC) JV for the $3.3 billion Brass Fertilizer and Petrochemical Company Ltd. (BFPCL).

    Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo urged all the parties to sustain the steadfastness with which they overcame the hurdles of making the signing for the project a reality.

    He said, “While this Signing Ceremony is a significant milestone in the development of the US$3.3Billion Brass Methanol Project, it is one more step in the journey to making the project a reality, and I urge all Parties to continue in the same steadfastness that has enabled us to surmount all previous hurdles.”

    He acknowledged that SPDC JV Partners, ably led by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) with the unwavering support and commitment of the IOCs (SPDC, TotalEnergies Ltd., and Eni) led to the signing the GSPA signing after a decade-long journey.

    The JV partners are taking an estimated 270mscf of gas per day to the fertilizer plant.

    The minister said he expected that within the shortest possible, BFPCL and its Partners will achieve Financial Close and commence actual construction of the project.

    Ekpo added that the project is also expected “to bring in much-needed Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and create thousands of jobs for our teeming population while changing the face and fortunes of the Host State and Community for good.

    Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Nicholas Ella, said the Brass Fertilizer and Petrochemical Project, valued at $3.5 billion, is set to generate more than $1.5 billion annually from exports of fertilizers, petrochemicals, and other gas-based products.

    The agreement, he said, is a key achievement within the Decade of Gas initiative, launched by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration, which aims to position gas as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s industrialization and energy security.

    He said: “In addition to boosting exports, the project will reduce fertilizer imports by 30%, saving Nigeria approximately $200 million in foreign exchange annually.

    Read Also: JUST IN: FG permits marketers to purchase fuel directly from Dangote refinery

    “Furthermore, it is projected to contribute around $600 million annually to Nigeria’s GDP, with a broader economic impact of up to $2 billion per year, thanks to the growth it will spur in related industries.

    “The project will also create over 5,000 direct jobs and 35,000 indirect jobs, significantly improving the livelihoods of many Nigerians, particularly in the Niger Delta region.”

    The Permanent Secretary said the initiative is closely aligned with Nigeria’s commitment to achieving zero routine flaring by 2030 and advancing the goals of the National Gas Policy by fully utilizing its gas resources for sustainable development.

    He commended the SPDC Joint Venture partners—Shell, TotalEnergies, and Eni—who have collectively invested over $15 billion in Nigeria’s gas infrastructure over the past decade.

  • FG urges private sector to follow FIRST E&P, Healthy Heart Foundation’s N2.6b open-heart surgery initiative for indigent Nigerians

    FG urges private sector to follow FIRST E&P, Healthy Heart Foundation’s N2.6b open-heart surgery initiative for indigent Nigerians

    The federal government has urged the private sector and well-meaning Nigerians to increase their support for providing quality and accessible healthcare services, especially for the most vulnerable citizens.

    The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, highlighted the importance of this support, noting the government’s limitations due to competing demands on resources, which may affect the full implementation of its healthcare revitalization plans.

    Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the launch of a N2.6 billion partnership between FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P) and the Healthy Heart Foundation, aimed at offering open-heart surgeries and advanced cardiovascular care to 360 underprivileged Nigerians, Pate stressed that the initiative exemplifies the impact private sector partnerships can have in advancing the government’s healthcare goals. He called on other corporate bodies and individuals to follow suit.

    The collaboration will provide a range of cardiovascular treatments, including open-heart surgeries, minimally invasive procedures such as Percutaneous Cardiac Interventions (Coronary Angiograms and Angioplasties), and device insertions like Pacemakers, Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT), and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD).

    The Healthy Heart Foundation will oversee the selection and confirmation of beneficiaries, while FIRST Cardiology Consultants will carry out the cardiovascular related procedures.

    Emphasizing the immeasurable and lasting impact of the intervention on the nation’s efforts to improve citizens’ well-being, Pate said, “We are deeply grateful for this remarkable partnership between FIRST E&P and the Healthy Heart Foundation, which highlights the power of cross-sector collaboration.

    “This initiative provides access to quality cardiac care for Nigerians at a critical time, addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. 

    “It is partnerships like these that will help us improve health outcomes, expand access to essential services, and ultimately save lives”. 

    In his opening remarks, Henry Odein Ajumogobia, Chairman of FIRST Exploration and Production (FIRST E&P), an independent oil exploration company, emphasized that as a responsible and responsive organization, the board recognizes the healthcare burden on vulnerable Nigerians.

    Affirming the determination of the oil form to contribute meaningfully to addressing this issue in alignment with the government’s plans, the former Minister said: “Of the thousands of Nigerians that require heart surgery annually, only about 200 surgeries are carried out each year. 

    “At FIRST E&P, we are deeply committed to the well-being of our people, the prosperity of our communities, the preservation of the environment, and maintaining the highest standards of governance. 

    “We are pleased to provide funding to help bridge the gap in healthcare and provide critical care to those who need it most.

    “Partnerships work best when the commitment is shared, and the expertise is complementary. This is exactly the case here, with partners who are deeply committed to creating social impact.”

    He said that the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts have benefited 180 individuals through eight medical missions since 2018, with open-heart surgeries beginning in 2021, the N2.6 billion grant, Ajumogobia noted that the new grant marks an expansion of their partnership with the Healthy Heart Foundation.

    On his part, Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, Managing Director of FIRST E&P, noted that partnership was reflected in the organization’s social development initiatives, that focus on education, health, and enterprise development and job creation. 

    “By supporting programs like this, we ensure that our contributions in the energy sector are matched by efforts to improve lives,” he added.

    He disclosed that the partnership is open to renewal to sustain the initiative.

    Adeyemi Johnson, MD/CEO of First Cardiology Consultants and Co-founder of the Healthy Heart Foundation, also echoed the same sentiment, saying the collaboration marks the dawn of a new era of hope for those in need. 

    “Our partnership with the Healthy Heart Foundation aligns perfectly with the broader mission of FIRST E&P, which goes beyond energy development to include a strong commitment to the well-being of our communities”.

    On the reason behind the Foundation’s focus on providing open-heart surgeries and advanced cardiovascular care, Johnson explained that he and his partner, both specialist cardiologists based overseas, identified the significant gap in the care sector in Nigeria. 

    According to him, the realization motivated them to relocate home to offer the same world-class services available abroad, particularly to benefit indigent Nigerians who might otherwise not have access to such care.

    Read Also: Reps task FG on reconstruction of Alau dam, seek technology based enforcement for road safety 

    He said: “I came back in 2008, at that time, most of the cases of heart attacks were foreigners with only a few Nigerians, today, more Nigerians are coming down with heart attacks, heart failure, and cardiac arrest.

    “The incidence of heart disease is increasing dramatically, due to hypertension, we have the highest burden of hypertension in the world 

    “There is now an epidemic of disabilities, mostly driven by poor lifestyle choices, and environmental stress, right now, even people in their ’40s are coming down with heart attacks, including women.

    “Things are changing rapidly and heart disease is now a major problem but the government cannot do everything, the private sector has to assist the government to address the high burden of the disease in the country.”

  • Reps task FG on reconstruction of Alau dam, seek technology based enforcement for road safety 

    Reps task FG on reconstruction of Alau dam, seek technology based enforcement for road safety 

    The House of Representatives on Thursday asked the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to reassess, fortify and reconstruct the Alau Dam to forestall any future occurrence of floods or any mishap, while capturing the reconstruction work of the dam in the 2025 budget.

    The House also asked the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to embrace technology-assisted enforcement in the management of road safety and evaluate the effectiveness of enforcement strategies, whether technology-assisted methods are reducing traffic violations and improving safety

    The House resolutions followed two separate motions on notice by Abdulkadir Rais (APC, Borno) and . Garba Ibrahim Muhammad (NNPP, Kano) at Thursday plenary of the House.

    The House said the FRSC should adopt Automatic Vehicle Local (AVL) systems; Automated Traffic Enforcement (ATE) systems; Advanced analytics and data platforms and other potential options in the management of road safety in the country.

    Moving his motion, Rais said the Alau Dam with a maximum storage capacity of 112-million litres, located in Alau Community of Borno State was constructed in 1984 to provide water for irrigation and domestic use in Maiduguri;

    According to him, the Dam was constructed by the government not only to store water for use, but to also help control flooding from the Ngadda River; adding that it first collapsed on the 13th September, 1994 causing flood in Maiduguri and its environs that destroyed properties, public amenities and farmlands causing the displacement of about half a million residents.

    He expressed concern that almost exactly 30 years later on 10th September, 2024, Maiduguri was again flooded by the worst flood in its history, affecting over 60% of the city destroying lives, properties and critical city infrastructure like roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, markets and other public utilities as a result of the collapse of the dam.

    He said that despite several budgetary allocations over the years the Alau Dam has remained in poor shape, hence the recurring collapse and the ensuing floods over the years.

    While moving his own motion, Garba Ibrahim Muhammad said the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) was established in 1988 with the responsibility of promoting safe driving practices, reducing road accidents and fosters the culture of road safety awareness across the country.

    According to him, Federal Road Safety Commission  officers patrol highways, apprehend traffic offenders, issue traffic regulations to deter dangerous driving and regulate the issuance of driver’s licenses to ensure only qualified individuals operate vehicles on the roads.

    Read Also: Reps considering laws to improve eyecare services – Kalu

    He however expressed concern that the enforcement methods of physical checkpoints pose potential risks to commuters, the location of checkpoints on steep inclines or declines can be dangerous, especially for motorcycles and tricycles, application of sudden brake or swerve maneuvers to avoid checkpoints can lead to accidents.

    He also concerned that checkpoints create bottlenecks, especially during peak hours, leading to traffic jams and delays coupled with alleged reports of FRSC officials engaging in corrupt practices at checkpoints, soliciting bribes from motorists, or impounding vehicles for minor offenses.

    He said the practice of using motorcycles and vehicles to chase commuters for traffic offenses by FRSC officials raises concerns as the chase was always on high speed, posing a risk to bystanders, and resulting in loss of control leading to injuries and minor accidents;

    He stressed that while the Federal Road Safety Commission’s (FRSC) goal of enforcing traffic laws is understandable, it’s crucial to prioritize the safety of everyone on the road. Chasing commuters should be a last resort, employed only in situations where it is absolutely necessary and can be done safely.

  • FG worried over drinking water sources

    FG worried over drinking water sources

    The Federal Government has called for immediate and concerted efforts to tackle worsening water crisis, highlighting the urgent need to protect drinking water sources and improve access to clean water and sanitation.

    At a workshop in Abuja titled “Access to clean water and improved sanitation: The Place of regulation and management,” the Acting Executive Director of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC), Mrs. Sakinatu Suleiman Abbo Jimeta, warned that over 57% of Nigerians are forced to rely on untreated water sources, exposing them to serious health risks. 

    She added that climate change was exacerbating the situation, further straining the country’s already fragile water supply.

    Jimeta emphasised that safeguarding Nigeria’s drinking water is crucial, not only for public health but also for economic growth and long-term sustainability. 

    According to her: “The protection of our water resources is central to supporting economic development, maintaining environmental integrity, and ensuring long-term water security.”

    She also highlighted the importance of regulation and management in the water sector, noting that without effective oversight, it would be difficult to guarantee access to clean water and improved sanitation for all Nigerians. 

    According to Jimeta, this issue was a fundamental human right that requires urgent attention.

    The workshop gathered stakeholders from across the water sector, including government officials, water service providers, environmental experts, and international partners, to discuss best practices for water resource management. 

    Participants were briefed on the need for a collective approach to safeguarding the country’s water sources and ensuring equitable access to safe water and sanitation.

    Mr. Sunday Idowu, Director of Corporate Support Services at NIWRMC, also raised concerns about the dire health consequences of inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. 

    He pointed out that millions of Nigerians, particularly in rural areas, are at risk of waterborne diseases due to their reliance on unsafe water sources.

    Read Also: FG sets up task forces to boost aviation sector through PPPs

    “Our focus as a Commission is to regulate, protect, and manage Nigeria’s water resources for sustainable development. The health risks associated with poor water quality and inadequate sanitation are immense, and addressing them is a top priority,” Idowu stated. 

    He added that the Commission is working on several initiatives to enhance water safety and promote sustainable water management practices.

    During the workshop, experts including Mr. Michael Ale and Engineer Kazeem Kolawole Raji presented papers on the role of effective regulation in improving water access and sanitation. 

    They highlighted the importance of community involvement in water management, sustainable water usage practices, and the need for stronger collaboration between government and private sector players.

  • FG sets up task forces to boost aviation sector through PPPs

    FG sets up task forces to boost aviation sector through PPPs

    The federal government has inaugurated task forces in the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) and the Ministry of Aviation to drive investment in the aviation sector through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

    This move aims to unlock the economic potential of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

    A statement from the ICRC said the Director General of the ICRC, Dr. Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh, revealed the initiative during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo SAN, on Monday in Abuja.

    The task forces are designed to fast-track infrastructure projects in the aviation sector through PPP arrangements, enabling swift and efficient delivery.

    Dr. Ewalefoh emphasised the vital role of the aviation industry in boosting other sectors and advancing Nigeria’s economic potential.

    He noted that the ICRC’s task force would focus on attracting private sector investment into aviation infrastructure without overburdening public resources.

    Citing examples from around the world, including the £16 billion private sector investment in Heathrow Airport (2003-2019) and a $575 million investment in Dakar Airport, he highlighted the untapped opportunities within Nigeria’s aviation sector.

    “Nigeria, with over 200 million people, should be able to attract significant investments and become a global hub for aviation, serving as a connecting point for Africa,” Ewalefoh said.

    “Aviation is key to unlocking the economic potential of this country. If we get it right, Nigeria’s story will change.”

    The DG also praised Minister Keyamo for resolving longstanding issues in the sector, including the UAE-Nigeria diplomatic dispute, which led to the resumption of Emirates Airlines flights, and securing the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction after a decade-long effort.

    In response, Minister Keyamo underscored the importance of accelerating PPP projects in the aviation sector.

    Read Also: ICAN urges FG to fix refineries, forex

    To this end, he established a task force within the Ministry of Aviation to collaborate with the ICRC in delivering key infrastructure projects. He assured the DG that the ministry would prioritize all PPP proposals it has received, setting timelines for their execution.

    “The aviation sector holds significant PPP potential, especially with projects like cargo terminals. We will pursue these vigorously, working closely with the ICRC to ensure timely delivery,” Keyamo stated.

    Keyamo also commended the ICRC’s proactive approach and assured the Commission of the ministry’s full cooperation in advancing PPP infrastructure in aviation.

    With the establishment of these task forces, the Federal Government aims to close the infrastructure gap in Nigeria’s aviation sector, providing the foundation for the country to emerge as a major player in global aviation.

  • FG recognises outstanding young achievers

    FG recognises outstanding young achievers

    The Federal Government has honoured a group of young people aged 14 to 24 who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, social responsibility and life skills. 

    The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, expressed Nigeria’s commitment to empowering its youth at the Silver Award presentation ceremony of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

    The Minister praised the awardees for their remarkable achievements, recognising the silver award as a significant milestone in their development and urging them to strive for the Gold Award. 

    He emphasised their crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s future, stating, “You are the future leaders of this country, and we count on you to keep pushing yourselves and reaching for excellence.”

    Edun reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians by reducing poverty and empowering the younger generation. He noted that investment in the nation’s youth is essential for driving long-term national progress.

    Read Also: FG advised on Nigeria-China agreements

    Since its introduction in Nigeria, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award has positively impacted over 60,000 young people, fostering leadership, social responsibility and key life skills through a structured and progressive framework with the guidance of over 2,000 adult mentors and volunteers. 

    The programme continues to empower youths to meet challenges head-on and prepare them for success in an increasingly complex world.

    Other dignitaries at the Silver Award presentation ceremony included the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs. Gill Lever; Special Adviser to the Minister of Youth for State Development, Mr. Tunde Yakub Prudent; Trustee of The International Award for Young People Nigeria, Mr. Abdulrahman Sambo and Special Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Sanyade Okoli.

    The silver award presentation ceremony is a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to youth development and empowerment.