The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Nigeria

  • Nigeria, France strengthen ties with strategic agreements

    Nigeria, France strengthen ties with strategic agreements

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, have taken bold steps to deepen bilateral relations between Nigeria and France by signing two critical agreements aimed at fostering infrastructure development and food security.

    According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the milestone event took place during an economic Forum on Thursday at the Palais des Elysée in Paris, during President Tinubu’s state visit.

    Earlier, President Tinubu and President Macron witnessed the signing of the agreement by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group Chairman Tony Elumelu and Mr. Antoine Armand, the French Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry for the bank to commence operations in Paris.

    Zenith Bank also inaugurated its services in the country during the visit.

    Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and Mr. Armand signed the Letter of Intent.

    According to the document: ”The two countries affirmed their commitment to work together on investment and development of critical infrastructure, healthcare transportation, agricultural value chain, renewable energy, and human capital development, through diverse financial and technical assistance programmes, of over Euros 300m spread across all geopolitical zones in the country.

    “The two countries committed to forge a strategic relationship in project implementation and enhance mutual trade and cross border services by removing fiscal barriers while protecting labour rights.” 

    The Minister of Finance, Edun, and Chief Executive Officer of the French Development Agency (AFD), Mr. Remi Rioux, signed another Letter of Intent to support the Renewed Hope Agenda reforms designed to stimulate and strengthen the economy.

    Read Also: Nigeria seeks international partners’ support for agro-industrial growth

    “The Declaration”, the document states, “ set out the enduring relationship between the AFD and the FRN, and the AFD’s continuing commitment to support the socio-economic growth of Nigeria through financing sustainable projects in urban infrastructure development, transportation network, housing infrastructure, human capital development through improved education specifically in STEM, agriculture, food security and healthcare.

    “The AFD reaffirmed its commitment to long-term support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President on energy access and transition, sustainable agriculture and food security by financing the improvement of agro-logistic hubs. Importantly, the AFD committed to supporting the real sector by providing capital from MSME in high-impact sectors.

    “The Federal Republic of Nigeria also affirmed its support for the projects financed by the AFD and committed to ensure that the implementation of the projects are expedited efficiently.” 

  • Nigeria seeks international partners’ support for agro-industrial growth

    Nigeria seeks international partners’ support for agro-industrial growth

    In a bid to drive economic diversification and achieve food security, the Nigerian government has called on international development partners to co-finance the second phase of its Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ-2) programme.

    This is just as Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the project as a game changer for the nation’s economy, saying accelerated implementation plan for phase one and the on-boarding of the phase-two states will enable the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to actualize its food security agenda.

    The Nigeria Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme aims to create new hubs that integrate the production, processing, and distribution of targeted crops and livestock to achieve food security, increase incomes, improve livelihoods, and support economic diversification.

    Speaking on Thursday during the SAPZ-2 programme co-financiers meeting held at Presidential Villa, Abuja, the Vice President said the SAPZ programme would be a win-win situation for both the Nigerian government and the development partners in meeting their development objectives and impacting livelihoods.

    According to a statement issued by his Spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, on Friday, Shattima said: “This meeting has become imperative to mobilize additional financing for the second phase of the programme to accommodate more States beyond the ten that has been earmarked.

    “We currently have a commitment of US$600 million from AfDB through a multi-tranche financing arrangement of US$200 million/year and US$300 million from BADEA expected to be allocated on a US$100 million/year basis.”

    On phase one of the initiative, VP Shettima noted that the first phase taught a lot of lessons which is helping the government to reshape the programme towards an accelerated delivery,

    Noting that the whole idea will actualize the administration’s food security agenda, he said, “With the African Development Bank (AfDB), the SAPZ programme is different from any other programme and has been set on autopilot with the Design, Build, and Operate (DBO) model that is set to deliver infrastructure for the processing zones by the end of 2025.

    “The accelerated implementation plan for phase one and the onboarding of the phase-two states will enable us to achieve Mr. President’s Food Security Agenda.

    “The strategic focus is to set modalities for increased production and processing of Cassava, Rice, Maize, Cocoa, Tomatoes, and Livestock amongst other designated SAPZ priority crops in all the seven participating states and the FCT for this upcoming dry season”.

    The VP described SAPZ as the agri-business model for Nigeria to diversify its economy through agriculture as well as a platform for development partners to deliver on their developmental objectives across the various SDGs.

    He noted that the Nigerian government has made it a Presidential priority programme and has “kick-started the legal arrangement to institutionalize it as an agency of the government for sustainability”.

    Applauding their commitments to co-finance the initiative together with the Nigerian government, the VP commended the AfDB, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) for their unwavering commitment to ensuring that the SAPZ programme delivers on its objective.

    Earlier, National Programme Coordinator, SAPZ, Dr. Kabir Yusuf, said the project is designed to bolster Nigeria’s agro-industrial development, boost food security, create jobs, and reduce poverty, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    “The primary objective is to support sustainable and inclusive agro-industrial development through four components: infrastructure development in agro-industrial hubs, agricultural productivity, policy implementation, and program management.

    “For every participating state, we first identify the crop with a competitive and comparative advantage, then support production and agro-processing to reduce Nigeria’s 40 percent post-harvest losses. Closing this gap can improve food security by 40 percent,” Yusuf explained. 

    The programme spans eight states—Kano, Kaduna, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Imo, Cross River, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    “We provide catalytic infrastructure such as power, access roads, and water treatment plants, significantly reducing operating costs for investors. This initiative not only supports agro-industries but also positions Nigeria for sustainable economic diversification,” he added. 

    Also, Nigeria’s Country Director for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Ms. Dede Ekoue noted that the SAPZ-1 had remarkable success in the states.

    “We are seeing positive outcomes in Kano, where the lives of smallholder farmers and agro-industries have improved. This programme is a federal government priority, aiming to promote inclusive agro-industrialization, enhance food security, and create jobs. Nigeria’s leadership in this sector can influence the entire continent,” she stated. 

    For his part, Director General of the African Development Bank Group’s Nigeria Country Office, Dr. Abdul Kamara described the SAPZ as having the highest potential to bring change to Nigeria. 

    “This comprehensive programme doesn’t just boost production but also creates opportunities for value addition, aligning with President Tinubu’s commitment to food security and youth employment. It positions Nigeria to leverage opportunities like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) by adding value to exports beyond national consumption,” Kamara explained. 

    Read Also: Cricket: Unbeaten Nigeria  bash Botswana to lift WCQ Trophy

    Also, a member of Nigeria Country Office for the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Mr. Daniyar Abylkhan, commended the SAPZ initiative, saying it aligns with the IsDB’s goals of addressing food insecurity and improving livelihoods.

    “Based on the success of the first phase, we are committed to participating in the second phase and ensuring its continued impact,” Abylkhan noted. 

    Other partners present at the meeting included the Federal Ministry of Finance, World Bank, United Nations Development Programme, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Rural Electrification Agency (REA) among others. 

  • Nigeria’s exports to UK hit $2.5b

    Nigeria’s exports to UK hit $2.5b

    The value of Nigeria’s annual exports to the United Kingdom (UK) has reached $2.5billlion. This is as trade relations between both countries stand at an impressive 7.5 billion pounds.

    The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole made this known during the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce 2024 Presidential Dinner Awards Ceremony in Lagos.

    She said by targeting a modest 1-5 per cent increase in exports to the UK over the next two years, Nigeria could generate an additional $25-125 million in export revenue.

    This, the Minister said, would strengthen sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and oil, while enhancing foreign reserves and reinforcing the country’s global competitiveness.

    She, therefore, urged the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) to lead the charge, by expanding market access, fostering partnerships, and supporting productivity improvements to make this goal a reality.

    “Together we can move the needle on the trade volumes and productivity, ensuring that this relationship truly delivers prosperity for both nations,” Oduwole said, adding that there should be tangible progress driven by the collective commitment.

    The Minister, who was also Special Guest of Honour, said forward-thinking initiatives, including the establishment of the British Trade Centre in Nigeria, were shining examples of the commitment to innovation and growth.

    According to her, these efforts would not only promote excellence within Nigeria’s business community, but also highlight the nation as a leading investment destination in Africa.

    Read Also: Tinubu excited, experts optimistic over 3.46 per cent Q3 GDP growth

    “Your achievements inspire us all, demonstrating the impact of perseverance, innovation, and strategic partnerships,” she said.

    Speaking on the theme, “Nigeria-British Relations from Partnership to Prosperity”, Oduwole said the Chamber reflected the heart of the shared vision, a partnership built on mutual respect, innovation, and economic collaboration that transcends borders and drives prosperity for both nations.

    According to her, for 47 years, the NBCC has exemplified the power of partnership by fostering economic collaboration, trade, and investment, noting that the unwavering commitment has provided a platform for businesses on both sides to innovate, grow, and prosper.

    “This event reminds us of the strength of the Nigerian-Britain relationship and challenges us to think boldly about the future of our relationship,” she added.

    Oduwole assured that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment would remain committed to creating the enabling environment where partnerships like those facilitated by the NBCC could flourish.

    “Through reforms in trade facilitation, investment promotion, and industrial policy, we’re driving economic diversification and inclusive growth. Our alignment with the Chamber’s initiatives ensures that Nigeria’s businesses are well positioned to compete globally while benefiting from Britain’s investment and trade expertise,” the Minister stated.

    She insisted that the two chambers must continue to strengthen the bond between the two countries, while transforming partnership into shared prosperity.

    While acknowledging its outstanding contributions and organising the high-status event, Oduwole said the dinner award celebrations organised by the Chamber would inspire new ideas, renewed partnerships, and lasting impact for years to come.

    The President and Chairman of Council of the Chamber, Ray Atelly, said the dreams of the founding fathers had been largely realised. According to him, private sector organisations from either country had been doing business in large volumes.

    “Last count, it was 7.2 billion pounds in total trading volumes. Between both nations, we have even started extending the frontiers of the businesses that we do outside of the traditional trading activities. But we can do much better. A trading volume of $20 billion is not wishful thinking. It’s something we can realise per annum”, Atelly stated.

    He noted that governments of both countries had started to make concerted efforts towards enhancing trade between both nations.

    “On our part, in the private sector, we are committed to playing our part. And we will do all within our powers to ensure that this movement towards doing more together is accomplished”, he assured.

  • Nigeria’s economic reforms and outlook for 2025

    Nigeria’s economic reforms and outlook for 2025

    • By Kenechukwu Aguolu

    Sir: There have been divergent opinions about the economic policies adopted by the administration of President Bola Tinubu since it came into power on May 29, 2023. Those opposing the policies can be categorized into two groups: those who are ignorant about the workings of the policies but are genuinely concerned about the short-term hardships they have caused, and opposition parties and their followers who have decided to oppose any policy introduced by this government. The president has repeatedly stated that he was aware of Nigerians were going through.

    One striking observation is that many of those opposing the economic reforms of this government are suggesting a return to the status quo—reversing the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. This suggestion is absurd, as these policies are the very ones that have destroyed the Nigerian economy over the years. Trillions of naira that could have been used for building infrastructure, improving healthcare and education, enhancing the military capabilities of the Nigerian security agencies, and funding research and development were spent on fuel subsidies and defending the naira.

    When President Tinubu assumed office, the country was in dire straits: high levels of insecurity, poor infrastructure development, a debt service-to-revenue ratio as high as 97%, a forex backlog of  $7 billion, and many state governments struggling to pay salaries. The Nigerian economy was in a state of comatose in need of radical reforms. During his national broadcast on the occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary on October 1, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated that Nigeria must either reform for progress and prosperity or continue business as usual and risk collapse. It is common sense that to achieve different results, things must be done differently.

    Read Also: Economy fully on rebound with Tinubu’s reforms, says Omokri

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank have commended the economic policies of this administration and emphasized the need for them to be sustained. The good news is that the reforms have already started yielding results. The federal government has commenced the implementation of a national minimum wage, with state governments following suit at varying degrees. Insecurity levels have dropped, students are benefiting from a student loan scheme, the inherited forex backlog has been cleared, the debt service-to-revenue ratio has fallen to under 70%, foreign direct investments worth over $30 billion have been recorded in the past year, and the nation’s foreign reserves have risen to $40 billion. These are indicators of progress.

    In 2025, with oil production expected to hit two million barrels per day and domestic refining capabilities improving, the value of the naira is likely to strengthen, creating a positive multiplier effect on the cost of goods and services. The living standards of Nigerians will improve as their purchasing power increases and inflation drops. Businesses will thrive in 2025, leading to higher employment rates as household consumption rises and the cost of doing business decreases. Additionally, the impact of the current administration’s efforts to diversify the economy, improve infrastructure, and enhance security nationwide will further boost economic activity in 2025. These projections are based on the assumption that there will be no major pandemics or other crises locally or globally.

    •Kenechukwu Aguolu,  FCA,

    kenerek1@gmail.com

  • Nigeria, Brazil pact to boost agric in 774 councils

    Nigeria, Brazil pact to boost agric in 774 councils

    Nigeria and Brazil have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that would attract $4.3 billion private sector investment in agriculture in 774 local governments.

    The scope of the investment, which is expected to revolutionalise agriculture in the country, covers fertiliser production and hybrid seed technology.

    Also, the MoU would create new opportunities in agricultural financing.

    The groundbreaking partnership between Nigeria and Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV) of Brazil, both countries believe, would boost food productivity.

    The MoU, signed during the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, focuses on driving innovation and investment in fertiliser production, hybrid seed technology, and agricultural finance across the councils.

    The agreement was formalised by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), Mr. Temitope Fashedemi, on behalf of Nigeria, and the President of FGV, Prof Carlos Ivan Simonsen Leal, at FGV’s headquarters in Rio de Janeiro.

    According to a statement by the State House Director of Information and Public Relations, Abiodun Oladunjoye, the agreement marked a renewed commitment to the Green Imperative Project (GIP), a $1.2 billion initiative launched in 2018 to modernise the sector, using Brazilian expertise in tropical agriculture.

    “This partnership paves the way for Brazil to engage with Nigeria’s dynamic and rapidly growing agricultural sector,” said Fashedemi during the signing ceremony.

    “Together with FGV, we are poised to unlock the potential of private sector investment in key areas critical to our food security,” he added.

    The Green Imperative Project, supported by Deutsche Bank, aims to deliver transformative agricultural technologies and facilitate knowledge transfer to Nigeria over its 10-year timeline.

    Read Also: FG trains 541 youths in modern agriculture to combat unemployment

    The statement  said the project will focus on identifying and supporting one agribusiness in each local government area with both technical and financial resources, to promote sustainable development and economic growth in the next five years.

    Prof. Leal described the agreement as a significant step in fostering global collaboration for sustainable agricultural development.

    Senior members of Nigeria’s Presidency, officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and FGV leadership were at the ceremony, reflecting the high-level commitment to the initiative.

    By blending Nigeria’s agricultural potential with Brazil’s expertise, the partnership aims to revolutionise Nigeria’s agribusiness landscape, strengthen food security, and position the country as a leader in sustainable agriculture on the global stage.

  • IPI Nigeria’s annual congress to hold December 11 in Abuja

    IPI Nigeria’s annual congress to hold December 11 in Abuja

    The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) will hold its annual general congress on December 11 and 12 in Abuja, the organisation has said.

    Its Secretary, Ahmed Shekarau, announced this in a statement yesterday in Lagos.

    The statement said the annual congress would be a three-part event comprising a conference on December 11, an annual general meeting (AGM) and the election of new officials on December 12, while a dinner will also hold on the night of December 12.

    Read Also: Jimoh Ibrahim, Australia PM to speak at Oxford conference

    Shekarau said all the events would be held at the Abuja Continental Hotel (formerly Sheraton Hotel).

    The statement said the conference, with the theme: Democracy, Media Freedom and the Imperative of Protecting Nigeria’s Civic Space, would enable members and other attendees to brainstorm on some of the challenges affecting journalism practice and how practitioners can survive in challenging environments.

    “The conference will also help journalists to interact with leaders of key security agencies and seek common solutions to incessant clashes between journalists and security agencies.

    “The sessions are designed

  • Nigeria, Brazil sign MoU to revolutionise agriculture in Nigeria’s 774 council areas

    Nigeria, Brazil sign MoU to revolutionise agriculture in Nigeria’s 774 council areas

    The federal government has entered a groundbreaking partnership with Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV) of Brazil to transform the country’s agricultural sector. 

    The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed during the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, focuses on driving innovation and investment in fertiliser production, hybrid seed technology, and agricultural finance across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

    The agreement was formalized by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), Mr. Temitope Fashedemi, on behalf of Nigeria, and the President of FGV, Professor Carlos Ivan Simonsen Leal, at FGV’s headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. 

    According to a statement issued on Sunday by the State House Director of Information and Public Relations, Abiodun Oladunjoye, the agreement marked a renewed commitment to the Green Imperative Project (GIP), a $1.2 billion initiative launched in 2018 to modernize Nigeria’s agricultural sector, using Brazilian expertise in tropical agriculture.

    Read Also: Nigeria secures five upgrades en route to exiting FATF’s grey list

    “This partnership paves the way for Brazil to engage with Nigeria’s dynamic and rapidly growing agricultural sector,” said Fashedemi during the signing ceremony. “Together with FGV, we are poised to unlock the potential of private sector investment in key areas critical to our food security.”

    The Green Imperative Project, supported by Deutsche Bank, aims to deliver transformative agricultural technologies and facilitate knowledge transfer to Nigeria over its 10-year timeline. 

    The statement further said the project will focus on identifying and supporting one agribusiness in each local government area with both technical and financial resources, to promote sustainable development and economic growth in the next five years. 

    The MoU is expected to attract $4.3 billion in private-sector investment into critical areas such as fertiliser production and hybrid seed technology, alongside creating new opportunities in agricultural financing. 

    Professor Carlos Ivan Simonsen Leal described the agreement as a significant step in fostering global collaboration for sustainable agricultural development.

    Senior members of Nigeria’s Presidency, officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and FGV leadership were present at the ceremony, reflecting the high-level commitment to the initiative. 

    By blending Nigeria’s agricultural potential with Brazil’s expertise, the partnership aims to revolutionize Nigeria’s agribusiness landscape, strengthen food security, and position the country as a leader in sustainable agriculture on the global stage.

  • Enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria

    Enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria

    By Abejide Oyinkansola

    The major word ‘Certificate’ qualifies that you are  done with school.Being  school for four years and grading out with fake certificates shows that the school is not capable of taking education reliable. They put words in mouth of people that ‘School is a Scam’. And also a waste of time. Many students run to  the university without even knowing its source. The aim to achieve due to several years of taking UTME and not getting admitted to the university has caused many impatient Nigerians to just go for any university without knowing their standard.

    It was fitting enough for the government to sack Benin Republic officials due to the offence they were charged for. If they were capable of doing their jobs to the required standard, the government would not think to terminate their performance and knowledge act in education in giving fake certificates. The Minister of Education of Benin Republic is yet to speak against the fake certificates that were given to the students.

    Facts on student understanding and reliability are very crucial in aspects of education. In order to have the ability to think wisely, it is essential to have a strong foundation in education. During stages of interviews or conferences, students should be able to meet the targets of studying and be well-spoken outside of the educational setting.

    Read Also: Obasanjo, INEC and need for a balanced review of Nigeria’s elections

    Education provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen careers, while also fostering personal growth and development. Additionally, education helps individuals develop a sense of humor and social skills, which are essential for building strong relationships and achieving success in life.

    Lecturers with low levels of education should be encouraged to pursue further education, such as PhDs and master’s degrees, to bring more value to the education system in Nigeria. Students should be able to look up to their lecturers as role models and draw inspiration from their expertise to succeed in their academic pursuits.

    The government should ensure that only lecturers with higher degrees, such as PhDs and master’s degrees, are employed to work in universities. This is crucial to the quality of education. For instance, when a final year student puts into practice what he  has learned during four years of study in university, he should be able to demonstrate a high level of competence and expertise.

    By having lecturers with higher degrees, students will be able to benefit from their knowledge and experience, which will ultimately enhance the quality of education in Nigeria.

    To address the issue of fake certificates and prove that education is not a waste of time, the government should focus on improving the education system rather than just sacking officials from Benin Republic. This can be achieved by employing well-trained lecturers in universities, which would encourage Nigerians to stay and study in the country. In fact, government has already taken steps to address the issue of fake certificates by suspending the evaluation and accreditation of degree certificates from Benin Republic and Togo .Additionally, by investing in education and providing quality lecturers, the government can help restore the value of education and make it more attractive for Nigerians to stay and study in the country.

    •Abejide is a student at Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic,Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State .

  • Nigeria vows to appeal $25m judgment in favour of Chinese firm

    Nigeria vows to appeal $25m judgment in favour of Chinese firm

    The Federal Government has vowed to appeal a recent judgment by the British Virgin Islands High Court, which granted Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd, a Chinese company, the right to seize $25 million from Nigeria’s foreign assets. 

    The company had sought relief over a failed trade zone agreement signed with Ogun State under former Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s administration.

    “This is not a judgment that will be enforced immediately,” said Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications. 

    “The ruling serves as a warning, and until Nigeria has the opportunity to enter its defense, the judgment cannot be enforced. We still have the chance to appeal and vacate the ruling,” Bwala said.

    Read Also: Akpabio seeks enhanced parliamentary collaboration with China

    The dispute stems from a 2010 agreement in which Zhongshan secured rights to develop a free trade zone in Ogun State. 

    However, the project was terminated by the Ogun State government in 2016, leading to Zhongshan initiating an investment treaty arbitration under the bilateral investment treaty between China and Nigeria. 

    The arbitration tribunal ruled in favor of Zhongshan, awarding the company approximately $70 million in compensation. Nigeria argued for state immunity, but this defense was rejected by the UK courts. 

    Bwala emphasized that “the Presidency remains committed to defending Nigeria’s interests. We will continue to examine all options and take the necessary steps to address these legal challenges, ensuring that Nigeria’s rights and assets are preserved”.

  • Indian group to promote cultural exchange, others  in Nigeria

    Indian group to promote cultural exchange, others  in Nigeria

    Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP) has said it will promote cultural exchange and growth in Nigeria.

    The Indian political group met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his brief   visit to the country.

    OFBJP’s executive committee and others discussed efforts in promoting awareness about initiatives, led by Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India and elsewhere. 

    During the meeting, the committee noted  efforts in showcasing the policies of Modi’s government, such as economic reforms, digital innovation and sustainability.

    OFBJP, a global support organisation of BJP, operates offices in many countries and is involved in initiatives beyond political advocacy.

    It also emphasised its role in maintaining BJP’s image as a transparent, forward-thinking political party, globally recognised as the largest political organisation in terms of membership among democracies.

    Spokesperson of OFBJP in Lagos, Dr Anil Grover, said    OFBJP’s contributions in Nigeria included charity drives, hosting cultural events, and building networks to strengthen India-Nigeria relations.

    Read Also: EFCC fires two staff over corrupt practices

     “Support groups like OFBJP foster a positive and transparent image of BJP.

    “We are dedicated to spreading awareness about the visionary leadership of Modi and BJP’s efforts to bring change in India and the world.”

    “With support of the Indian diaspora, it continues to be a bridge for fostering cross-cultural and economic ties between the nations,” he said.

    OFBJP spoksperson in Abuja, Sudhir Rathore, said the prime minister’s  visit is a pivotal moment in strengthening the relationship between India and Nigeria.

    He said the conferment of Nigeria’s highest honour, Grand Commander of Order of the Niger on Modi underscores Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a strong and friendly partnership with India.

    The prime minister’s visit witnessed signing of significant MoUs between the two countries, covering bilateral trade, defence, food security, healthcare, and investment.

    “We are also involved in cultural promotion, advocating Indian traditions, including promotion of Hindi and Yoga, fostering cultural exchange and goodwill,” he added.