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  • Nigeria, Brazil deepen strategic ties with $1bn agric deal

    Nigeria, Brazil deepen strategic ties with $1bn agric deal

    …new MoUs on defence, energy, drug control

    Nigeria and Brazil have taken a bold step in deepening their bilateral relations, with Vice President Kashim Shettima hailing the landmark $1 billion Green Imperative agricultural initiative as a “milestone” in renewed cooperation between both countries.

    The two nations on Tuesday opened the 2nd Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, a high-level diplomatic engagement aimed at consolidating economic, security, and cultural ties.

    Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, his wife Maria Lúcia Alckmin, and senior government officials were received earlier in the day by Vice President Shettima and other Nigerian dignitaries.

    In his address at the opening ceremony, Vice President Shettima described the Nigeria-Brazil partnership as one rooted in “mutual respect and practical cooperation,” with both countries sharing common democratic values and vast economic potential.

    According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said, “Brazil and Nigeria are not bound by geography, but by a shared dream. Two large, diverse democracies. Two economies with immense natural and human capital. Two nations with the right to dream and the ability to build”.

    He emphasised the transformational impact of the Green Imperative Project, jointly developed by both nations, which aims to deploy over $1 billion to deliver mechanised farming equipment, training, and service centres across Nigeria.

    “This project will create jobs, raise productivity, and help secure Nigeria’s ambition to feed itself and others. The Green Imperative is a flagship of this partnership, and one we are determined to deliver,” he said.

    VP Shettima also used the occasion to reaffirm the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s commitment to economic reforms that are reshaping Nigeria’s investment landscape.

    He said, “Fuel subsidies have been removed. The exchange rate has been unified. A new business facilitation regime has come into force. These decisions are not without cost, but they are restoring credibility to our markets and discipline to public finance.”

    The Vice President explained that Nigeria is laying the foundation for a one trillion-dollar economy by 2030, with reforms spanning agriculture, energy, education, and public finance.

    “We are moving from subsistence to scale in agriculture, and in energy, we are taking long-overdue steps to attract serious investment into gas production, refining, and renewables. We recognise Brazil’s experience in biofuels and renewable technologies and see clear opportunities for joint ventures, knowledge transfer, and co-investment,” he added.

    VP Shettima called for enhanced cooperation in security, health, education, and innovation: “In health and education, our priorities are straightforward. We want to promote access, quality, and inclusion. From the rollout of a student loan scheme to digital learning platforms and expanded vocational training, we are investing in the minds and talents of our young people.

    “The Memoranda of Understanding before our sister nations today speak to the breadth of this cooperation. But memoranda are only as meaningful as the follow-through they inspire. We must resist the temptation to confuse signing with solving,” he said.

    Urging both sides to agree on practical steps to measure and enforce progress, the Vice President said, “Let this Strategic Dialogue Mechanism not be remembered as a formal reunion, but as a decisive pivot—from aspiration to execution, from promise to proof.”

    On his part, Brazil’s Vice President, Alckmin, said the strengthening of the Brazil-Nigeria partnership is anchored in shared values and a concrete results agenda, noting that “it is with great satisfaction that we witness the important results achieved in several fronts of cooperation.”

    Alckmin highlighted Nigeria’s presence in the 2nd Brazil-Africa dialogue on food security held in Brasilia last May, pointing out areas where the two countries have strengthened partnership and cooperation.

    He said, “In the signing of Memoranda of Understanding in areas of agriculture and security, which will boost our cooperation, our partnership has been strengthened also by the frequent high-level visits such as President Bola Tinubu’s recent participation in the G20 and the upcoming BRICS meeting in July.”

    On climate issues, the Brazilian VP said Brazil has the largest tropical forest in the world, which is a powerhouse in the green and low-carbon economy, just as he stated that it is impossible to discuss the energy transition without including Brazil.

    “I invite Nigeria, a country that also plays a leading role in these agendas, to come to COP30 in Belém at the end of this year. We must cooperate on these crucial issues for our countries and the world, and we have made a lot of progress,” he added.

    In his opening remarks, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, said the event marks the epoch of Nigeria-Brazil bilateral relations and a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation with mutual understanding through people-to-people exchange between both countries.

    He noted that both countries share good relations dating back to the 1960s when Nigeria established diplomatic relations with Brazil.

    The Minister stated that the Strategic Dialogue was established to deepen ties between Nigeria and Brazil, with the first meeting held in 2013 in Brasilia with emphasis on economic and social development.

    Read Also: Fed Govt kicks off agric renewal with 2000 tractors

    On his part, the Ambassador of Brazil to Nigeria, Carlos José Areias Moreno Garcete, who represented the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, explained that Nigeria and Brazil share deep historical and cultural ties, both recognizing their common identities, one of which is the warm friendliness and affection they received in Nigeria, attesting to the strong bond between both countries.

    He stated that the reintegration of Brazil into the global stage has been the preoccupation and foreign policy direction of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and within that context, relations with Africa are a top priority.

    Garcete stressed that this is not because of Africa’s growing global importance but because Brazil’s policy towards Africa is directly linked to its domestic agenda.

    He noted that President Lula has said in the 2nd session of the Brazil-Africa Dialogue on Food Security, Fight against Hunger, and Rural Development that “Africa is part of Brazil and Brazil is proud to say that it is part of Africa.

    “We intend to build partnerships with Africa in developing economic, social, and environmental initiatives, in particular to eradicate hunger and poverty and to reduce inequality on both sides of the planet,” he added.

    Also, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, stated that the strategic dialogue meeting is not just a meeting of two friendly nations but a meeting to share a vision for peace, security, and sustainable development both in their respective regions and on the global stage.

    Abubakar noted that the strategic meeting offers another opportunity to consolidate the gains and chart a new path for the future, as the two countries will seize the unique opportunity to deepen defence cooperation in four key areas, namely maritime security in the South Atlantic, acknowledging that Brazil’s role in this is well recognised.

    For his part, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, informed the delegation that the strategy of operation for food security under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu is gaining high momentum of development in Nigeria.

    He called for more partnership with Brazil in agriculture as the sector “remains a cornerstone in livelihood and food security.”

    Other ministers who spoke at the opening ceremony included Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole and Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako. Also present were Governors of Borno State, Ebonyi State, Niger State; deputy governor of Kaduna State. Others were the Minister of Power, Minister of Livestock Development, Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology.

    Seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) spanning critical sectors, including agriculture, defence, energy, culture, and counter-narcotics, were signed on the first day of the meeting, with others lined up for the coming days.

    The first MoU signed was an Addendum to the Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM), signed by Vice President Shettima on behalf of Nigeria and his Brazilian counterpart. The document reaffirms the guiding framework for Nigeria-Brazil cooperation, first established over a decade ago.

    The second was the Agreement on Defence Cooperation, signed by the Vice President of Brazil and Nigeria’s Minister of Defence. The agreement opens new avenues for collaboration in military training, intelligence sharing, and defence technology.

    In the energy sector, both countries signed an MoU in the Field of Technical Cooperation on Energy, outlining joint plans in electricity generation, renewable energy development, and energy access solutions.

    Others were the signing of an Addendum to the MoU on Cooperation in Livestock, Agriculture, and Food Security; MoU on Audiovisual Cooperation; MoU on Tourism Cooperation; and Cooperation in Combating the Illicit Production, Manufacture, and Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances signed by the Director of International Cooperation of the Brazilian Federal Police and the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

  • Five countries where Nigerians can acquire citizenship in under one year

    Five countries where Nigerians can acquire citizenship in under one year

    For many Nigerians considering relocation, the time it takes to acquire citizenship is a crucial factor. With growing economic challenges, limited job prospects, and rising security concerns at home, many are drawn to destinations that offer quicker, more accessible naturalisation processes.

    Fortunately, several countries around the world provide some of the fastest routes to citizenship, often in less than a year, whether through investment programmes or simplified legal pathways.

    Here are five countries where you can become a citizen in under 12 months:

    1. Vanuatu

    Tucked away in the South Pacific, Vanuatu offers one of the fastest routes to citizenship, often completed in as little as one to four months. The country’s peaceful environment, natural beauty, and efficient process make it an appealing choice for those seeking a tropical escape with minimal bureaucratic delays.

    2. Grenada

    Grenada grants citizenship in approximately three to four months, making it one of the fastest options in the Caribbean. Beyond its efficient processing, Grenada boasts beautiful scenery and a passport that allows visa-free travel to numerous countries, including China and the Schengen Area.

    3.  Antigua & Barbuda

    Citizenship in Antigua & Barbuda typically takes around three to four months. The country is known for its stunning beaches, English-speaking population, and simple application process. With a minimal physical presence requirement of just five days in five years, it offers flexibility for those who want options without relocation pressure.

    Read Also: marriage citizenship registration court orders fg to halt action over alleged contract breach

    4. Turkey

    For those looking toward Europe, Turkey provides a fast-track route to citizenship in three to six months, mainly through property investment or capital deposits. Blending Eastern tradition with Western infrastructure, Turkey is culturally vibrant and geographically strategic. Its citizenship program is especially appealing for investors and families.

    5. St. Kitts & Nevis

    This twin-island nation in the Caribbean offers citizenship in about two to nine months. Known for its political stability, English-speaking population, and favourable tax regime, St. Kitts & Nevis is especially attractive to those seeking a quiet, well-connected lifestyle. Its citizenship-by-investment program is among the oldest and most trusted globally.

  • Brazilian vice president arrives Nigeria for strategic dialogue

    Brazilian vice president arrives Nigeria for strategic dialogue

    The Vice President of Brazil, Geraldo Alckmin and his wife, Maria Alckmin, on Tuesday arrived Nigeria for the  commencement of the Second Session of the Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM).

    On arrival at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the delegation was received by Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole.

    Other government officials that received the delegation are the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari; among others.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the high-profile visit, represents a watershed in Nigeria’s South-South diplomatic engagement.

    It is expected to yield significant policy breakthroughs across multiple sectors.

    Speaking at a brief reception at the airport, Hadejia described the visit as “a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

    He emphasised the strategic importance of deepening ties with Brazil.

    “This dialogue mechanism represents our commitment to leveraging South-South partnerships that deliver tangible benefits to our citizens.

    “Brazil’s expertise in agribusiness, energy transition, and industrial development aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s transformation priorities and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.”

    The three-day summit will culminate in the signing of over 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) across critical sectors.

    The sectors include;, defence cooperation, agricultural technology transfer, energy collaboration, and cultural exchange programmes.

    (NAN)

  • Why Nigeria cannot become a one-party entity

    Why Nigeria cannot become a one-party entity

    By Ray Ekpu

    Since the massive defection of the Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa and the state’s local government contingent from the PDP to APC, the tension in the political landscape has reached a flash point. On Friday June 6, the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno took the courageous step of leaving the party, PDP, that has been in power in his state for 25 unbroken years.

    He abandoned the umbrella of the PDP and grabbed the broom of the ruling party, APC. The defection ceremony was chaired by the chairman of the APC Governor’s Forum and governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma. He led eight other governors to the event.

    So far only one commissioner in Eno’s cabinet has opted out of the defection train. Ini Ememobong, Commissioner for Special Duties and Deep Seaport said that he is resigning his commissionership because of his belief in politics with principles. What other evidence do you need that power is sweet, very sweet, in fact sweeter than honey. That is why power is said to be “the ultimate aphrodisiac.”

    Within the APC there is singing, drumming and dancing, that the 2027 race is likely to be a fait accompli, a walk-over, a stroll in the garden. Not really but all politicians are optimists, incorrigible optimists, idealists, idealistic idealists, who see a drop of water in the ocean as the ocean itself.

    President Bola Tinubu has obviously been very happy with the turn of events. At the national summit of the APC held on May 22, he had said that the “defection of some prominent members of the opposition party to the APC was in order as they were exercising their constitutionally approved democratic rights. Don’t forget that the freedom of movement and the freedom of association are not criminally punishable.” That appears to be his response to those in the opposition party who feel that it is wrong for people elected on the ticket of one party to defect to another party.

    On the other hand, the members of the opposition do not want to admit that these defections and or planned defections are putting their nerves at full stretch. They do not want to admit that the political landscape has definitely tilted and rattled on its axis. They are struggling to put a gloss over the rough edges so that what has happened in the political space does not become a significant piece of irritation for them. That is why they would say that they do not need governors to win the presidency even though they know full well that it is governors who control the voters in their states through their local governments. They do not want to admit that they are in the eye of the tornado and that they need to work extremely hard to get a soft landing.

    Whatever they are saying in response to the situation on the ground can be regarded simply as a tribute to tenacity, a tribute to optimism. That is politics.

    What Oborevwori and Eno have done is called in some countries crossing the floor or crossing the carpet. In the British House of Commons, the government and opposition members of parliament face each other on rows of benches. They are not bunched up together as we have in Nigeria’s National Assembly. So in England, those who change from either government to opposition or vice versa have to sit on the other side. In Nigeria, such defections of prominent people are done with a fabulous fanfare and with a huge gathering in tow. They give such persons the flag of his new party which he displays to the public. Sometimes they also give the new member the symbol of the party.

    In the case of someone joining the APC, he may be given the broom. If he is joining the PDP, he may be given an umbrella. But so far I haven’t seen anyone joining APGA being given a live cock which is the party’s symbol. Maybe it will happen someday if the party manages to get some prominent new converts. In some countries such as India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia and Bangladesh, there are laws that prescribe the removal of a member from parliament due to carpet crossing. In Nigeria carpet crossing is allowed if there is a problem within the party of the person who wants to defect to another party.

    A few of such cases have been handled by Nigerian courts but many of such cases are not pursued largely because it takes a long time before such cases are decided.

    In Nigeria, carpet crossing is easy, as easy as drinking water because all the parties look alike, like siamese twins, and behave alike like robots. All the well-known parties in Nigeria are right wing parties. No significant party is left wing or centrist. In terms of policies and programmes, there is hardly any difference. In the Second Republic, there were seven parties and out of the seven, only two had any policy difference. While the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) believed in quality education, the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) was gunning for free education at all levels. The approach to education was the only significant difference between the two parties. The other five parties had nothing outstandingly different from each other.

    Now the APC has 23 governors while the PDP has 10, APGA one, Labour Party one and NNPP one. There are speculations about Adamawa, Plateau, Enugu and Rivers but they remain speculations only.

    At present our democracy is multi-party with the APC leading in the National Assembly and the states. This is followed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP) and the NNPP. At present discussions, covert and overt, are going on as a way of putting together a mega coalition that would give the ruling party a heluva fight in 2027. but the main problems with this coalition are the conflicting ambitions of the principal proponents of the coalition as well as the rotation principle. The rotation principle is likely to be an important element in the decision making process. By the rotation process between North and South, the South is entitled to do two terms after Muhammadu Buhari’s two terms. This is clearly one of the problems causing a conflict in the PDP and except it is resolved in favour of rotation, the party will continue to lose the support of Nigerians who believe that rotation is a force for the unity and stability of Nigeria.

    Nigerian politics is transactional. Most of those who are in it see it as a business that must yield profit. So people who defect from their parties to the ruling party expect to get some benefits from the might of the federal government. Some expect to be shoehorned into a lucrative office while some who probably have some skeletons in their cupboards expect to be forgiven if and when they defect. In that case they expect the EFCC, ICPC, DSS and the Police to look the other way as they collect the APC flag or broom at the defection venue. Some also expect to have a full stomach made possible by the award of stomach infrastructure which may come in different shapes and sizes.

    In Nigerian politics, no one defects from one party to another without getting or hoping to get something that can give him or her, a beer belly or rosy cheeks. But people do not defect only to the party at the centre. They also defect into a party that is the ruling party in a state because such parties are also in a position to provide stomach infrastructure or contracts or appointments or other forms of awoof.

    There are reasons why I believe that Nigeria will remain a multi-party democracy and can never become a one-party entity. One of the reasons I think so is because Nigeria is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multi-cultural entity that cannot become one party under one big tent. No single party can accommodate the idiosyncrasies of the different tribes and religions. So many Nigerians would still prefer to own their parties and be known as the founder, the convener, the Board of Trustees chairman or member. And they would put these designations in their curriculum vitae which will also bear their names as well as High Chief, Dr and Engineer. I know of no country in the world where people love vanity as much as Nigeria.

    Read Also: Hold governors accountable, not just Tinubu, APC chieftain tells Nigerians

    So, take it from me that all the politicians in Nigeria will not be found under one canopy no matter how attractive it looks. Now look at this list of the number of presidential candidates in the various elections since 1999. In 1999 -two candidates; 2003 -20 candidates; 2007 -27 candidates; 2011 -20 candidates; 2015 -20 candidates; 2019 -73 candidates and 2023 -18 candidates. So, if so many people wanted to be presidents of Nigeria, how would they become president from only one party? It is only from several parties that a president can emerge. They were not independent candidates. They were representatives of parties. In 2027 it will not be different. Several people under several party platforms will fight to become president.

     It is also noteworthy that after the 2019 elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deregistered 74 political parties for failing to “satisfy the requirements” of continued registration based on their poor performance during the elections. As of 2022, the deregistration of these parties was being challenged in court which means that they were still active on the ground. As we speak now, there are still about 20 political parties in the political horizon who are hoping that they may someday acquire power. Every politician always hopes that someday, he may acquire power. No one can dim that flame of optimism whether or not he has acquired the blaze and dazzle of popularity that can fetch him the key to the Kingdom of Power.

    So those who are chanting the song of a one-party democracy can spend time and do something useful. Nigeria will not become a one-party entity either now or in the foreseeable future.

  • Bjorkegren: Ghana, Nigeria Friendly tie will help gauge Black Queens preparedness

    Bjorkegren: Ghana, Nigeria Friendly tie will help gauge Black Queens preparedness

    Ghana Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren believes  their confrontation with the Super Falcons will help gauge the level of preparedness of his wards ahead of the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

    The highly anticipated fixture is one of three international friendlies lined up for the Black Queens this month as part of their build-up to the 2025 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

    Read Also: VIVA VICTOR: Osimhen wows at Wilfred Ndidi’s star-studded Maracana Children’s Fest

    In a pre-match interview, Bjorkegren emphasized the importance of facing top-tier opposition to sharpen his team’s readiness for the continental showpiece.

    “We want to test ourselves against different playing styles and team dynamics. Malawi and Benin Republic provide technical and disciplined opposition, while Nigeria offers the challenge of a traditional powerhouse,” Bjorkegren told the Ghana FA website.

    Ghana will kicked off their friendly series against Malawi on Saturday  at the Ziaida Complex in Benslimane with a 3&1 victory , followed by a match against Benin Republic that replaced Botswana on June 25.

    They will conclude their preparations with a high-profile showdown against Nigeria on Friday, June 29, at the Lanouria Complex.

  • Nigeria, Benin sign landmark integration pact

    Nigeria, Benin sign landmark integration pact

    In a historic move aimed at redefining regional integration in West Africa, Nigeria and the Republic of Benin on Saturday signed a landmark agreement to deepen bilateral cooperation and set a precedent for broader collaboration across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    The signing ceremony, held during the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) in Abuja, was witnessed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and his Beninois counterpart, President Patrice Talon. 

    The agreement, officials say, will serve as a template for actionable economic and political integration in the sub-region.

    Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, signed on behalf of Nigeria. 

    Representing Benin were the Minister of Industry and Trade, Shadiya Alimatou Assouman, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Shegun Adjadi Bakari.

    According to a statement by Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Talon, while speaking at the event, hailed the agreement as a bold step forward. 

    “President Tinubu and I have agreed on full integration between Benin and Nigeria. The responsibility now lies with our ministers to implement it. Benin and Nigeria are more than twins—we are the same people. Let us show the region that integration is possible,” he said.

    Talon called for urgent reforms within ECOWAS, warning that the regional bloc was facing a crisis of credibility and functionality. 

    “ECOWAS is a perfect example of regional integration. Unfortunately, our ECOWAS is in crisis right now,” he declared.

    He cited the failure of key regional infrastructure projects, including the West African Gas Pipeline, which he said had been rendered ineffective due to bureaucratic inertia. 

    “It is ridiculous. This failure of regional cooperation wastes resources and undermines integration,” Talon said, revealing that Benin was now importing gas from Qatar via a floating storage and regasification unit.

    Similarly, he lamented the poor performance of the West African Power Pool. 

    “We invested heavily in this infrastructure. But it is not functioning as expected. Unless we act decisively, I’m not confident it ever will,” he added.

    Turning his focus to logistical bottlenecks along the Lagos–Abidjan Corridor, Talon criticised the persistent border harassment and delays that plague cross-border travel. 

    “The road exists. But a businessman should be able to travel from Lagos to Abidjan in hours—not days—without facing harassment at multiple checkpoints. That is not integration,” he stressed.

    The Beninois leader warned that poverty remained the most potent threat to democracy and stability in the region. 

    “Poverty is the main threat to democracy, security, and stability. If we do not address poverty through integration, our values will remain hollow,” he said.

    Invoking global trade tensions, Talon cited the United States’ protectionist shift under President Donald Trump as a wake-up call for African nations. 

    “The trade war should remind us that nations act in their interest, and so should we. At some point, we may even have to thank President Trump for that reminder,” he said.

    Talon urged his fellow West African leaders to abandon lip service and take concrete steps to deliver economic opportunity for their people. 

    “If we cannot create wealth and opportunity, all our other values—democracy, liberty—cannot be sustained. Integration must be real. Integration must be delivered,” he concluded.

    The summit, a precursor to the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government scheduled for Sunday at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, featured remarks from several West African leaders and global officials.

    Liberian President Joseph Boakai reaffirmed his country’s support for ECOWAS and regional bodies like the Mano River Union in reducing trade barriers and harmonising economic policies. 

    He commended President Tinubu, Chair of the ECOWAS Authority, for what he described as a “timely, strategic summit.”

    “This summit offers a vital platform for reflection, coordination, and renewed commitment to the economic transformation of our subregion. While the challenges in the region are complex, they are not insurmountable”, Boakai said.

    Read Also: FG denies abandoning Nigerians in Iran

    Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio called for a deeper, more strategic push for economic integration amid global uncertainty and domestic vulnerabilities.

    “This potential must be unlocked through strategic integration, particularly amid rising public debt, climate vulnerability, food insecurity, and geopolitical uncertainty,” he said.

    Bio emphasised the need for political will to drive regional trade initiatives such as the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and the Common External Tariff. 

    “Trade integration must start with a strong political commitment,” he noted.

    He also expressed Sierra Leone’s support for a regional single currency to improve business confidence and reduce transaction costs. 

    “To deepen intra-regional competitiveness, we must accelerate progress toward monetary union. A single currency would reduce exchange rate costs, support price stability, and improve the business environment”, Bio said.

    The summit also featured recorded messages from UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and World Trade Organisation Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

  • Nigeria seeks stronger BRICS health collaboration

    Nigeria seeks stronger BRICS health collaboration

    Nigeria has called for deeper collaboration among BRICS countries in the face of mounting global health challenges, citing the urgent need for shared solutions to issues that no country can tackle alone.

    The BRICS is a group formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran.

    It serves as a political and diplomatic coordination forum for countries from the Global South and for coordination in the most diverse areas.

    Speaking at the 15th BRICS Health Ministers’ Meeting in Brasília, Brazil, on Tuesday, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Adekunle Salako, said the interconnected nature of today’s world requires a united front to build resilient health systems and achieve equitable outcomes.

    Dr. Salako noted that the global health landscape is under pressure from rising non-communicable diseases, climate change, pandemics, antimicrobial resistance, and worsening disparities in access to healthcare.

    These, he said, are further compounded by pollution, conflict, and shrinking international funding, adding, “These challenges call for stronger South-South cooperation and more global solidarity to share best practices and resources”.

    He underscored that the lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic remain relevant, having revealed how interconnected economies and societies are.

    “Until everybody is safe, nobody is safe,” he warned, emphasizing that global travel, trade, and interdependence mean that health security and pandemic preparedness must be tackled across borders.

    He said BRICS, representing some of the world’s most populous countries, offers a unique platform to work together on solutions to these pressing issues.

    The Minister said Nigeria’s domestic health reform efforts align strongly with BRICS priorities, noting, “Under the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, the government is pursuing four pillars of effective governance, a resilient and equitable health system, enhanced health security, and the unlocking of local healthcare value chains.

    “These efforts are backed by a focus on strategic financing, digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and institutional work culture improvement”.

    He revealed that Nigeria is increasing its investment in local pharmaceutical production, diagnostics, and other critical health inputs.

    The country is also revitalising its primary healthcare system, expanding social health insurance, developing its phytomedicine resources, and scaling up the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to improve service delivery.

    On disease prevention, Salako announced that Nigeria has vaccinated over 14 million girls aged 9 to 14 with the HPV vaccine as of May 2025, achieving the highest single-round HPV vaccination record globally.

    He also noted the country’s budgetary allocation of an additional $200 million to sustain key disease control programs in the face of declining overseas development assistance, particularly for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.

    According to him, Nigeria is also tackling non-communicable diseases by addressing their social and behavioural determinants and implementing policies to reduce risk factors.

    Nigeria, he said, currently leads the implementation of the WHO PEN-PLUS strategy in Africa to combat diseases such as sickle cell disease, Type 1 diabetes, childhood cancers, and rheumatic heart disease.

    Calling for expanded cooperation, Salako invited partnerships with BRICS countries in pharmaceutical research, phytomedicine development, and academic exchanges.

    Read Also: Nigeria reaffirms commitment to inclusive global order at BRICS meeting

    He expressed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate in strengthening domestic capacities for producing vaccines, drugs, and medical devices.

    “In the context of our shared humanity and common challenges, we must work together for the betterment of all.

    “Our collective efforts will complement national efforts and drive progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, leaving no one behind,” he said.

    The Minister further announced that Nigeria will host the next high-level ministerial meeting on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Abuja in June 2026.

  • I want to be remembered as a patriotic leader who loved Nigeria — Gowon

    I want to be remembered as a patriotic leader who loved Nigeria — Gowon

    Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon has said he wishes to be remembered as a patriotic leader who deeply loved Nigeria and consistently prayed for its unity and progress.

    Speaking in an interview with Arise Television, the 90-year-old elder statesman reflected on his years in office from 1966 to 1975, particularly addressing the causes of the Nigerian Civil War, which broke out in July 1967 and lasted for 30 months.

    Gowon revealed that efforts to prevent the conflict failed largely due to irreconcilable differences that surfaced during the January 1967 Aburi summit held in Ghana.

    He noted that Eastern Region leader, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, demanded a form of autonomy that the federal government could not agree to.

    Read Also: Civil War my most difficult period in life — Gowon

    “The Aburi meeting in Ghana could have prevented the war,” Gowon said. “But there was a fundamental disagreement between Ojukwu and the federal side. He wanted a type of regional autonomy that we just couldn’t accept.”

    When asked how he would like history to remember him, the former leader responded: “As a patriot who loved Nigeria and always prayed for its peace, unity, and progress.”

    “I want to be remembered as someone who loves his country, Nigeria, who loves Nigerians, who prays, at least if I cannot fight, I pray for Nigeria to continue to be a country that all of us love,” he said. “I know it is impossible for any country to be absolutely perfect.”

  • Nigeria contributes 85,325 sq km to global seabed mapping initiative

    Nigeria contributes 85,325 sq km to global seabed mapping initiative

    Nigeria has contributed 85,325 square kilometres to the global seabed mapping initiative for effective sea governance.

    The Hydrographer of the Federation, Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olugbode, revealed this during a press conference on World Hydrography Day celebration/West Africa Hydrographic Summit, on Tuesday.

    He noted that despite oceans covering 71% of the earth’s surface, only 26.1% has been mapped, hindering effective ocean governance.

    Rear Admiral Olugbode stated that the West Africa Hydrographic Summit, scheduled for June 19 to 21 in Abuja, will bring together ECOWAS navies to discuss challenges and opportunities in maritime governance.

    According to him, hydrography is the backdrop of maritime safety, economic development, and environmental sustainability, as well as ocean governance.

    Olugbode said: “The summit will chart the course for the future of hydrography in our region towards a global action.

    “In 2025, we aim to firstly strengthen regional collaboration through the main West African Hydrographic Summit, foster joint surveys, and share data platforms, both virtually and institutionally.

    “Two, we aim to feature keynote lectures and presentations, advocating hydrography and seabed to support the Seabed 2030 Initiative, a global program critical for the safety of navigation, climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and economic growth of the world.

    “Thirdly, we hope to showcase innovations in hydrography technology through exhibitions and live demonstrations. Last year, we celebrated the role of hydrography in maritime safety. This year, we took a bold step by addressing regional gaps and aligning with global frameworks, as well as regional frameworks, like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, the United Nations Sustainable Goal 12, titled, Life below Water.

    “This emphasises the critical importance of the ocean and marine resources to human well-being and the planet and the health of the planet…which is a critical factor for the sustenance of mankind.”

    At the national level, Rear Admiral Olugbode stated that the National Hydrographic Office has effectively mapped the Lagos and Calabar coastlines under the national charting scheme.

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    He said, “There are some things that we put into place: the mapping and the water. One is the density of shipping traffic, which Lagos has.

    “Second is the mobility of the seabed. How often does the seabed move, and that will determine, and this determines the rapidity with which we map.”

    He stated that the next area for mapping is the Bonny, adding that the mapping process is being conducted systematically.

  • Blueprints for value creation unveiled in Abuja

    Blueprints for value creation unveiled in Abuja

    A new book in Nigeria’s innovation landscape has been hailed as “a toolkit for change-makers” and a must-have for every innovator and aspiring innovator across sectors.

     Titled ‘Blueprints for Value Creation: A Story-Driven Guide to Innovation Mastery, the book was unveiled in Abuja by author and innovation strategist Dr. Obichi Obiajunwa, during a celebration of his 40th birthday.

    The official book reviewer, Engr. Betty Ugona, Pioneer Chief Innovation Officer at NNPC Limited, described the work as “an indispensable guide for professionals, entrepreneurs, and institutional leaders seeking to turn ideas into impact.”

    The book, structured as a blend of practical tools and story-rich insights, takes readers on a journey through the heart of purposeful innovation. 

    Far from being another technical manual, Blueprints for Value Creation offers a narrative approach that demystifies complex concepts and makes them applicable to local and global challenges.

    According to Ugona, the strength of the book lies in its practical relevance and ethical clarity—qualities often missing in current innovation literature.

    “This book is more than content; it is a compass,” she remarked during the launch. “It simplifies the language of innovation while elevating its purpose.”

    In her foreword, Ugona highlighted the book’s ability to distill innovation into digestible, actionable parts.

    Chapter 1 begins with a powerful real-world example: the integration of tuberculosis and COVID-19 case-finding—illustrating how visionary leadership can produce collaborative, life-saving solutions during crisis.

    Chapters 2 to 4 explore the types of innovation—incremental, breakthrough, transformative—and introduce practical methodologies like Design Thinking and TRIZ. These chapters offer readers the mental models needed to reframe problems and explore bold possibilities.

    Chapters 5 to 9 dive into developing and scaling solutions, with the use of Lean Startup principles, MVP development, and real-world examples like MAKO’s urban mobility solution in Lagos, and Emeka Couture’s international expansion.

    Chapters 10 to 14 focus on innovation management, ethics, and sustainability, featuring institutional case studies like Addis General Hospital and Starlight Academy, emphasizing how values-based leadership can drive lasting transformation.

    What sets Blueprints for Value Creation apart is its versatility. Whether you’re in healthcare, education, technology, or policy, the book provides a structured yet flexible framework for identifying problems, developing ideas, and scaling them sustainably.

    “It equips you to not just build things, but to build what matters—and build it well,” said Ugona.

    The inclusion of tools like stakeholder mapping canvases, innovation readiness templates, and value proposition checklists makes this work as much a workbook as it is a reflective guide.

    Designed for African Contexts, Relevant to Global Goals.

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    Dr. Obiajunwa, a trained medical doctor who transitioned into global innovation leadership, writes from experience and cultural insight. His background shapes the book’s strong ethical foundation, deep respect for local realities, and a call to align innovation with human-centered and sustainable principles.

    By weaving stories with strategy, and frameworks with empathy, Blueprints for Value Creation becomes a rare hybrid of academic rigor, practical insight, and personal reflection.

    A Timely Contribution to National and Continental Growth.

    As Nigeria and other African nations seek to leapfrog development constraints, this book provides a much-needed blueprint for building solutions that are viable, ethical, and scalable.

    “Whether you’re an early-stage entrepreneur, a government official, or a university lecturer, this book should be in your library,” Engr. Ugona concluded.

    The book is now available in print and will soon be distributed across academic institutions, innovation hubs, and entrepreneurial networks. 

    For a nation on the cusp of transformation, Blueprints for Value Creation delivers exactly what its title promises—a masterclass in building what matters.